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How to Trim Purple Hibiscus

Hibiscus is a plant genus that contains of a wide range of plants. One particular variety, the Hibiscus acetosella, grows burgundy leaves with purple flowers, which adorn the landscape in the late summer or early fall. This purple-flowering hibiscus is a tropical plant and is often grown like an annual in cool climates. No matter where it is growing, a Hibiscus acetosella benefits from regular pruning so it grows into a compact and full plant, rather than a tall and gangly one.

Things You'll Need

  • Garden clippers
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Instructions

    • 1

      Plan to trim back purple hibiscus branches several times during the growing season. This is not an exact science, so don't worry if you forget or prune it back too much; it will survive, provided you are caring for its other needs.

    • 2

      Prune the branches back approximately 4 or 5 inches. Snip them off right above a healthy set of leaves, using a pair of garden clippers. The plant will branch out from there.

    • 3

      Cut back a purple hibiscus to the ground in the fall after it dies, if applicable. This simply cleans up the garden and helps prevent pests from making this area of your garden their home for the winter.