Shoeblackplant

Shoeblackplant Care

Tropical hibiscus

What is the plant

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, known colloquially as Chinese hibiscus, China rose, Hawaiian hibiscus, rose mallow and shoeblackplant, is a species of tropical hibiscus, a flowering plant in the Hibisceae tribe of the family Malvaceae.

Hibiscus comes from the Mallow Family – Malvaceae – of which several hundred species make up this diverse group of plants found throughout the world. What a difference a week can make. In the spring, the flowers start to pop on the Hibiscus trees. It is truly a beautiful sight to see thousands of tropical plants with red, pinks, oranges, and yellows all starting to bust out to show off their colorful flowers. Malaysia calls Hibiscus rosa-sinensis its national flower.

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Lighting

Full Sun

Difficulty

Medium

How to Care for the Plant

Water
Hibiscus requires plenty of water. However, they do not like to sit in water. To test and see if you need to water, place your fingers on the top of the soil; if it feels dry to the touch, it is time to water your Hibiscus. When growing outside water your plant at least 3 to 4 times a week. Avoid using cold water, especially during winter months, when watering your hibiscus.
Fertilizer
Patio hibiscus plants respond well to balanced plant fertilizers like this. If you want lots of flowers, you’re going to need to fertilize your potted hibiscus. Select a balanced slow-release fertilizer such as a 20-20-20 or a specially formulated Hibiscus fertilizer. Trace elements such as iron for plants and magnesium also help hibiscus thrive. A water-soluble fertilizer at 1/2 strength can also be applied.
Sunlight
Placing your Hibiscus tree in full sun will produce the most flowers and best growth. Try to keep the plants out of windy areas.

Disease diagnosis

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Soil
Hibiscus is not particular about soil or potting mix. It will combat root rot and nematodes best with plenty of humus added, and maintaining a neutral pH. Soil with perfect drainage with a rich and humusy growing medium will yield excellent results. An African Violet soil like this is usually satisfactory for hibiscus.
Temperature
Hibiscus plants will thrive outdoors where the night temperature doesn’t drop below 50°F. Hibiscus are used outdoors in tropical climate landscapes. Avoid excessive cold and hot areas.
Container
Choose any container that has a good drainage.