How to Prune a Swamp Hibiscus

Swamp hibiscus (Hibiscus coccineus), also known as Texas Star, isn't the tropical flower that generally comes to mind when you think of hibiscus. The large flowers are a deep red, and as the name indicates, it's a water-loving plant. In fact, the more water you provide, the taller the swamp hibiscus grows. Pruning helps control the plant's height and can be done at any time during the growing season.

Pruning shears

Instructions

- 1
  Prune dead and broken branches at any time during the growing season by cutting them back to their points of origin.
- 2
  Cut down the swamp hibiscus' height to where you want it. Use sharp pruning shears to avoid shredding the stems.
- 3
  Pinch prune the swamp hibiscus when new stems reach 6 inches in length. Use your thumb and forefinger to pinch off the bud at the tip of each stem. This encourages the plant to grow fuller.
- 4
  Wait until the swamp hibiscus dies back in winter to cut all stems to the ground.

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