Hibiscus Red

Plant Type: shrub
Plant Height: 4-8 feet
Spread: 3-6 feet
Flower Color: deep red
Sun Exposure: Full Sun, Partial Shade

Hibiscus 'Red' (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis): A Bold Choice for Vibrant Garden Color

The Hibiscus 'Red,' a beautiful variety of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, is a must-have for those seeking to introduce dramatic color and tropical charm to their garden. With its large, deep red flowers and lush green foliage, this stunning shrub is perfect for creating a striking focal point or an eye-catching border in any landscape.

Key Features of Hibiscus 'Red'

• Bold, Tropical Blooms: The standout feature of Hibiscus 'Red' is its large, deep red flowers, which can span several inches in diameter. These eye-catching blooms provide a long-lasting display from late spring through fall, brightening any landscape with a touch of tropical elegance.
• Lush Green Foliage: The glossy, green leaves add a rich texture that contrasts beautifully with the red flowers, enhancing the plant's overall appeal. The dense, bushy growth creates an attractive structure, adding both color and volume to garden beds and borders.
• Adaptable Size: Growing to about 4 to 8 feet tall and 3 to 6 feet wide, Hibiscus 'Red' can be used in a variety of landscaping applications. Whether planted as a specimen plant, a hedge, or a vibrant addition to a mixed border, it provides versatility for gardeners and designers alike.

Ideal Growing Conditions

Hibiscus 'Red' performs best under the following conditions:

• Light: Thrives in full sun to partial shade. Full sun encourages the best bloom production and healthiest growth, making it ideal for bright, sunny garden spots.
• Soil: Prefers well-draining, fertile soil for optimal growth. The addition of organic matter can help improve soil quality and water retention.
• Water: Requires consistent moisture, especially during hot, dry periods. It is relatively drought-tolerant once established but benefits from regular watering.
• Fertilization: Regular feeding during the growing season promotes vigorous flowering and lush foliage. A balanced fertilizer applied every few weeks will support continuous blooms.

Landscaping Uses

Hibiscus 'Red' is incredibly versatile in the garden, bringing tropical flair and vibrant color to a variety of settings:

• Specimen Plant: Its bold flowers and lush foliage make it a standout choice as a specimen plant, capturing attention as a centerpiece in garden beds or containers.
• Tropical Borders: Perfect for creating a tropical atmosphere, Hibiscus 'Red' complements palms, ferns, and other tropical plants in landscape designs.
• Vibrant Hedges: With regular pruning, Hibiscus 'Red' can be used to create a vibrant, flowering hedge that adds both privacy and color to garden spaces.
• Container Gardening: Suitable for large containers, this hibiscus can bring beauty to patios, decks, and other outdoor living areas. In colder climates, container plants can be moved indoors for overwintering.

Summary

Hibiscus 'Red' is a breathtaking addition to any garden, known for its dramatic red flowers, lush foliage, and ease of care. This tropical shrub is adaptable, making it suitable for various garden styles, from bold borders to exotic container displays. Whether you're looking to create a tropical oasis or add dynamic color to your garden, Hibiscus 'Red' is a striking choice that offers beauty and elegance all season long. Its minimal maintenance needs, combined with its vibrant blooms, make it a popular selection for gardeners seeking to create lively, colorful outdoor spaces.

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

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 plants 3-4 feet apart for optimal growth and blooming
• 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 Red is a bushy shrub that requires no staking and produces bold red flowers

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 1.5-2 inches of water per session for deep watering

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Hibiscus Red is considered established after 2-3 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 12-18 inches away from the base of the plant to ensure deep watering
• Flow Rate: Use emitters with a flow rate of 1-2 gallons per hour for slow, deep watering
• Number of Emitters: 1 emitter per plant for even watering distribution
• Adjusting Frequency: Increase watering in summer to every 5-7 days. In winter, reduce to every 3-4 weeks