Hibiscus Braid Tree

Plant Type: shrub
Plant Height: 3-7 feet
Spread: 4-6 feet
Flower Color: red
Sun Exposure: Full Sun, Part Sun

Description:
The Hibiscus Braid Tree is a unique and visually captivating flowering tree that can thrive in the Arizona landscape, particularly in regions with a hot and arid climate. This tree, known for its striking and braided trunk, adds a touch of elegance and tropical charm to gardens and outdoor spaces.

One of the most distinctive features of the Hibiscus Braid Tree is its braided or twisted trunk. This trunk is created through careful training and pruning during the tree's early growth stages. The result is a beautifully braided trunk that adds an artistic and ornamental element to the landscape, making it a standout feature in gardens.

The tree produces large and showy hibiscus-like flowers, typically in shades of red, pink, or white, depending on the specific cultivar. These flowers have a tropical appearance and create a visually captivating display of color. The hibiscus blooms are not only attractive to humans but also attract pollinators like hummingbirds and butterflies, making the tree ecologically beneficial.

Hibiscus Braid Trees typically reach heights of 10 to 20 feet, with a similar spread, creating a well-proportioned and upright form. They are well-suited to Arizona's hot and arid climate, thriving in full sun and requiring well-drained soil. This tree is drought-tolerant once established, making it a valuable choice for water-wise landscaping and xeriscaping.

Maintenance of the Hibiscus Braid Tree includes occasional pruning to maintain the braided trunk and shape the tree. It is generally considered low-maintenance and is known for its resilience in desert conditions.

In summary, the Hibiscus Braid Tree is a unique and visually captivating choice for Arizona landscapes, especially in regions with a hot and arid climate. Its braided trunk, tropical hibiscus blooms, and artistic appeal make it a valuable addition to gardens and outdoor spaces, adding both visual beauty and a touch of exotic allure to the desert environment.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Hibiscus Braid Tree

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight for optimal growth and blooming)
• Soil: Well-drained, loamy or sandy soil (slightly acidic to neutral soil preferred)
• Spacing: Space trees 4-6 feet apart to allow for full growth and air circulation
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface
• Support: Hibiscus Braid Tree may need support initially, but as it matures, it becomes a sturdy ornamental tree

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil
• Frequency: Water every 3-4 days for the first 2-3 weeks to help establish the root system
• Watering Amount: Provide 2-3 inches of water per session for deep watering

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Hibiscus Braid Tree is considered established after 3-4 months when the roots have spread into the surrounding soil

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 7-10 days during the hotter months. If temperatures exceed 100°F, increase watering to every 5-7 days. Provide 2-3 inches of water per session.
• Winter: Water every 3-4 weeks during the cooler months, depending on rainfall.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: Place the drip emitters 18-24 inches away from the base of the tree to ensure deep watering of the root zone
• Flow Rate: Use emitters with a flow rate of 2-4 gallons per hour for deep watering
• Number of Emitters: 2-3 emitters per tree for even watering distribution
• Adjusting Frequency: Increase watering to every 5-7 days in summer. Reduce to every 3-4 weeks in winter