Light: Hibiscus love direct sunlight and would do best with at least a few hours of direct sunshine every day. A southern or western window would be ideal. 

Water: Hibiscus like a thorough watering, but avoid letting them stand in still water. Allow the top few inches of soil to dry before watering again, but do not allow them to go completely dry. 

Environment: Hibiscus are beautiful, tropical plants that need warm, humid conditions and some direct sunlight to thrive. Avoid cold drafts, AC units, and active radiators that reduce humidity levels. To encourage flowering, give weekly fertilizer feedings March–October. Never fertilize when the plant is dry to avoid damaging the roots.

Toxicity: This plant is reported to be non-toxic but is not edible.

Of Note:

  • Pruning during the summer is great for the plant, encouraging new budding and shoots as well as establishing a few dominant branches for aesthetic impact.
  • Hibiscus plants need regular fertilizing with a high potassium fertilizer throughout the growing season.
  • The most common pests for Hibiscus are spider mites and aphids. Be on the lookout during spring and summer to avoid an infestation. 
  • An overwintered Hibiscus may drop its leaves indoors 
  • All Hibiscus get yellow leaves occasionally. If your plant has many yellow leaves, it is likely stressed and needs care adjustments.
    *When planting in a pot without a drainage hole, avoid over watering by estimating 25% of the container’s overall volume, with appropriate drainage materials incorporated when planting.