Summer Storm Hibiscus

Description

• "Summer Storm" hibiscus emerges slowly in spring with woody branches on which deep maroon, lobed foliage grows. It reaches about 3 to 4 feet tall and just as wide, forming a mounded shape. The spectacular flowers arrive along the stems in midsummer, with blooms up to 8 inches in diameter. Each flower has a central yellow stamen and a deep red center, bleeding in a veined pattern into the pale pink petals. "Summer Storm" is part of the Summerific series of hibiscus. Individual flowers only last for a day or two, but the plant continually blooms through to fall with successive flowers. In winter, the plant dies back to the ground in cool climates.

Climate and Culture

• This hibiscus grows in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 4 through 9. According to Heritage Perennials, it flowers best in areas with long, hot and summers. Plant "Summer Storm" hibiscus in well-draining, acidic, rich soil and full sun, in an area with good air circulation. It performs well with light shade and average soil.

Care

• Hibiscus "Summer Storm" does not tolerate drought well, especially if it sits in only averagely rich soil. To maintain adequate moisture levels, water the plant from spring through fall to a depth of 6 to 8 inches when the top 1 inch of soil dries. This hibiscus responds well to frequent, light fertilization, about once a month during spring and summer with 1/4 cup of 7-2-7 fertilizer scattered around the base of the plant. Pinch off fading flowers to maintain the look of the plant and cut it down to 3 to 4 inches above the ground in late winter or early spring, before new growth emerges.

Pests and Diseases

• In the right environment, these plants rarely encounter pests or diseases, but leaf spots can become a problem as well as Japanese beetles, sawflies, whiteflies and aphids. To avoid foliage diseases, water in the morning and avoid wetting the leaves when you do so. Make sure the plant is not crowded by other plants either, as this could make for poor air circulation. If your "Summer Storm" hibiscus does develop a foliage problem, clear away all the branches and leaves in the fall so the fungus does not spread to next year's growth. Check often, on the tops and undersides of leaves, for chewing pests. If you find them and they persist, spray a ready-to-use insecticidal soap over the surface of the leaves to smother the pests.