Hibiscus Rosa-Sinensis Habitat

The Hibiscus

• The hibiscus is indigenous to subtropic and tropical areas. The plant cannot survive where the temperatures are lower than 56 degrees. In U.S. Department of Agriculture Plant Hardiness Zones 9 through 11, which includes, Florida, southern Texas, Southern California and Hawaii, the plant does well year-round. However, if there is the potential for frost, bring the hibiscus indoors or leave it outside but cover it up until the frost threat passes.

Locations

• In California along the coast, the temperature is frequently mild but with much sun. Hibiscus thrives well in this area. However, when traveling inland where the conditions are hot and dry, such as in Arizona, hibiscus need some shade. In the humid and hot states, such as coastal Texas and Florida where there is frequent rain and cloud cover, hibiscus grows in full sun. Planting hibiscus near trees allows filtered light to get to the plant as well as some direct sunlight and hibiscus like this.

Light and Shade

• Hibiscus prefers sun but tolerates partial shade. Too much shade inhibits flower production. Two hours of direct sunlight per day is enough to stimulate blooming. This is achieved indoors as well. Put the plant by a window with good sunlight. If the hibiscus doesn't get enough sunlight, it becomes a green bush with no blossoms.

Sunburn

• The plant thrives best when exposed to a proper balance of water, heat and sun. Too much sun actually sunburn hibiscus leaves. This happens when the plant grown in a greenhouse or inside a home is put outside, subjected to direct, strong light. The light destroys some of the chlorophyll in the leaves and the leaves turn white. This plant does not like temperature extremes and doesn't like standing in wet soil.