Some frequently asked questions about
Hibiscus
Hibiscus, just like Bougainvillea is a plant seen all over Cyprus. Its large, usually red flowers remind us all of sun, summer and holidays. Even though it comes from far away, it has become a plant directly associated with the Mediterranean scenery and you will find it in almost every garden in Cyprus. Following are some of the question frequently asked by our clients. We hope that our answers that come from experience and lots of time spent studying about this plant are helpful to everyone.
Q: Where does Hibiscus come from?
A: Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, the common type that we see all over Cyprus comes from southern Asia
Q: How can I use Hibiscus in my garden?
A: A versatile plant, Hibiscus can be used in the form of a shrub, trained as standard or planted in numbers to form a hedge. A use that in unfortunately not used by many, is to make it a centrepiece by training it to become an attractive middle sized tree.
Q: Does it need a lot of care?
A: Not really, it’s easy to grow, well adapted to the climate of Cyprus and it will reward the little care given with an abundance of flowers
Q: Should I water often?
A: It should not be allowed to dry out, especially in our hot summer, but then again Hibiscus does not like wet feet, so, don’t over water.
Q: What kind of soil does it prefer?
A: Since as we said before it does not like wet feet, soil with good drainage should be used
Q: Can I plant Hibiscus in pots?
A: Of course, it will do fine in a pot, as long as good drainage is provided.
Q: What about pruning?
A: It depends first of all on what the use of the plant is. If it is formed as a shrub or a small tree, cutting back one third to half is advisable, just before spring arrives. On the other hand, if it is formed as a hedge, you just want to maintain its shape. Pinching the tips of growing branches will encourage richer flowering.
Q: What pests and diseases affect Hibiscus?
A: Aphids attack hibiscus. They are easy to get rid of with an insecticide. In recent years, mealy bugs have become a serious problem for hibiscus. They are easily recognized by the white wooly substance that forms at the base of the leaves and spreads on the branches. Dursban is an appropriate insecticide but it is important to fight the problem at its early stages so inspect your plants regularly for any signs.
Q: Does Hibiscus need fertilizing?
A: We tend to fertilize three to four times a year with a general purpose fertilizer. It can be more often but in this case fertilize lightly. Often though, Hibiscus needs extra quantities of iron.
Q: Why are the leaves turning yellow?
A: Too much water can be a common mistake that will lead to yellowing leaves. It can also be a shock from over fertilizing of even from extreme heat. If case the leaves are turning yellow and you can clearly see their veins, the plant needs some extra iron.
As an ending note, we would like to say something about the many different colours of Hibiscus. Red, white, yellow, peach, pink, double red, double yellow, double pink, and so many more. We find that the single flowered ones are the most heat tolerant and so the most appropriate for our climate. The double flowered ones are less tolerant of both the heat and the cold. This does not mean that you can’t grow them, just plant them in more sheltered spots.
Happy Gardening!
