Should Hibiscus Be in Direct Sun Outdoors?

Cultural Requirements

• Hibiscus plants require full sunlight for best growth, as well as protection from strong winds. They tolerate partial shade, but will not grow to their fullest potential in low light conditions. Water established plants regularly, at least once a week, depending on local conditions. Irrigate until the soil is wet to a depth of at least 12 inches. Keep the soil completely dry between waterings, although young plants require more water than mature, established plants. Hibiscus plants do best in well-draining soil with a high proportion of organic material, with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. They are capable of surviving in marginal soils, although this results in reduced growth and flowering.

Fertilization

• Although outdoor Hibiscus in healthy soil are capable of surviving without regular fertilization, most varieties exhibit vigorous growth when fertilized regularly. Fertilizers with 15-5-10 or 15-5-15 formulations are ideal, applied four times annually. Fertilize hibiscus in early spring, midsummer, the beginning of winter and again after the plant undergoes its first period of heavy growth. The amount required is dependent on the size of the plant, and can range from half an ounce to over a pound, for mature, established specimens.

Hibiscus Indoors

• Hibiscus are better suited to sunny, outdoor conditions in most climates, but they can also grow indoors, under the proper lighting conditions. Some gardeners cultivate hibiscus as houseplants, while those in regions with harsh winters often bring them indoors to protect the plants from freezing. The same cultural requirements apply to indoor Hibiscus; they require well-draining soil and high levels of natural light. Because they are sun-loving plants, they do best in front of sunny, south facing windows. If sufficient natural light is unavailable, they thrive successfully under fluorescent lamps, or you can allow them to go dormant. Hibiscus plants sometimes drop their leaves in winter and regrow them in the summer, as long as their roots stay relatively moist.

Full-Sun Varieties

• Scarlet Swamp Hibiscus, also known as Hibiscus coccineus, produces bright red flowers with separated leaves, giving its blooms a star shaped appearance. It grows to heights between 7 and 8 feet. Rose Mallow Hibiscus also prefers full sunlight, producing short-lived, whitish blooms 10 to 12 inches wide. Hibiscus mutabilis, also known as Confederate Rose, grows to heights of 15 feet in sunny areas, blooming in deep pink. The flowers are reminiscent of rose blooms, and the leaves an attractive gray-green.