Last Updated on March 5, 2022 by Kimberly Crawford
There are many different types of hibiscus, and this comprehensive guide will teach you all about them! Hibiscus is a beautiful flower that comes in a variety of colors, and it can be grown both indoors and outdoors.
In this guide, we will discuss the different types of hibiscus and their characteristics. We will also provide tips on how to care for your hibiscus plants. So if you’re interested in learning more about these beautiful flowers, keep reading!
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Hibiscus flowers
Hibiscus flowers are beautiful and unique. The hibiscus is a tropical plant that can be found in many different colors, including red, pink, orange, and white. Hibiscus flowers have five petals and are usually about six inches in diameter. The hibiscus is native to Asia, but it can now be found in many different parts of the world.
Hibiscus flowers are often used in arrangements and bouquets. They can also be dried and used in potpourris. Hibiscus flowers are a popular choice for weddings, because they are beautiful and unique.
Hibiscus leaves
Hibiscus leaves are large, leathery, and have a distinct shape that makes them easy to identify. They are dark green in color and have a pointed end. The edges of the leaves are serrated, and the veins are visible on the surface.
Different Types Of Hibiscus
1. Hibiscus ‘Cherry Cheesecake’ (Rose Mallow)
Hibiscus ‘Cherry Cheesecake’ is one of the most beautiful plants I have ever grown. The blooms are a deep red with white edges and a creamy center that look like they were hand-painted. They appear all summer long on stems that reach up to six feet tall.
The only downside to this plant is its short lived nature. The flowers will last for just a day or two, but they are so beautiful that it is worth putting up with.
2. Hibiscus acetosella (Cranberry hibiscus)
Hibiscus acetosella is a species of hibiscus native to Ethiopia, Somalia, and Kenya. It is the national flower of Malaysia.
Hibiscus acetosella is a tropical plant that prefers warm, humid conditions. It can be grown as a houseplant in cooler climates, but will need to be kept moist. The plant does best in full sun, but can tolerate partial shade. Hibiscus acetosella is a fast-growing plant and can reach up to six feet in height.
The leaves of the hibiscus acetosella are edible and can be used in salads or cooked as a green vegetable. The flowers are also edible and can be added to salads or desserts.
Hibiscus acetosella is a beautiful plant that makes an excellent addition to any garden or landscape.
3. Hibiscus arnottianus (Hawaiian white hibiscus, Koki’o ke’oke’o)
Hibiscus arnottianus, also known as the Hawaiian white hibiscus, is a species of Hibiscus native to the Hawaiian Islands. It is a member of the Malvaceae, or mallow, family. The plant grows in moist, shady forest areas at elevations from sea level to about 3000 feet (900 m).
The leaves are variable in shape, but are usually broad and lobed, with a length of about 12 inches (30 cm) and a width of about 18 inches (46 cm). The flowers are white, with a diameter of about four inches (102 mm). The plant blooms from June to October.
The fruit is a dark brown or black capsule, about one inch (26 mm) in diameter.
The Hawaiian white hibiscus is used as an ornamental plant in gardens, and is also grown for its flowers which are used to make leis. The flowers are also eaten as a food item.
The wood of the plant is very hard, and has been used to make tools and weapons.
The Hawaiian white hibiscus is listed as a threatened species by the state of Hawaii.
4. Hibiscus ‘Berry Awesome’ (Hibiscus moscheutos ‘Berry Awesome’)
Hibiscus ‘Berry Awesome’ is an irresistible new hibiscus with huge, dinner plate-sized flowers that open over a long season from late summer to early fall.
The rich magenta flowers with deep crimson throats are absolutely stunning against the dark green foliage. This tough and easy to grow plant is perfect for adding dramatic color to any garden!
Hibiscus ‘Berry Awesome’ is a hybrid hibiscus that was developed by Dr. Dennis Werner of the NC State University Plant Breeding Program. It is a cross between Hibiscus moscheutos and Hibiscus coccineus. The resulting plant is vigorous and easy to grow, with large, showy flowers that will attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
Hibiscus ‘Berry Awesome’ grows best in full sun or partial shade, and is tolerant of a wide range of soil types. It can be grown in USDA Hardiness Zones A-D.
The flowers on Hibiscus ‘Berry Awesome’ are absolutely stunning! This tough and easy to grow plant is perfect for adding dramatic color to any garden!
5. Hibiscus calyphyllus (lemonyellow rosemallow)
Hibiscus calyphyllus is a species of hibiscus native to the West Indies, where it is abundant on many of the islands. It is also found in Mexico, Central America, and South America as far south as Peru.
The lemon-yellow flowers have five petals and are up to 12 cm wide. The leaves are variable in shape, but are generally deeply lobed. The plant grows to a height of up to 60 cm.
It is hardy in USDA zones 11 and 12.
The flowers are edible and can be eaten fresh or made into preserves. They are high in Vitamin C.
Hibiscus calyphyllus makes an attractive addition to the garden, and is a good plant for attracting bees and butterflies. It can be grown in sun or partial shade, and prefers well-drained soil.
6. Hibiscus cannabinus (Kenaf)
Hibiscus cannabinu (skenaf) is a species of Hibiscus that is used for many purposes. The bast fibers from the stem are very strong and are used to make ropes, sacks, carpets, and other items.
The leaves can also be eaten as greens or cooked in dishes. The flowers are edible and often made into jams or jellies. This plant is also used as an ornamental plant.
Hibiscus cannabinus is native to the Old World tropics, but it is now grown in many other parts of the world. This plant can be found in Africa, Asia, Australia, and North and South America. Kenaf was first introduced into the United States in 1837.
Kenaf is a fast-growing plant that can reach heights of up to 20 feet. It grows best in warm, moist climates and can be grown as an annual or a perennial. The flowers are usually red, but they can also be orange, yellow, or white. Kenaf is a member of the mallow family (Malvaceae).
7. Hibiscus coccineus (Scarlet rosemallow)
Hibiscus coccineus is a species of hibiscus native to the southeastern United States. It is a perennial herbaceous plant with showy red flowers. The scarlet rosemallow is one of the most popular hibiscus species grown in gardens.
8. Hibiscus denudatus (paleface, rock hibiscus)
Hibiscus denudatus is a small tree or large shrub found in dry to moist limestone soils of the Edwards Plateau and Trans-Pecos regions of Texas. It is typically multi-trunked with a spreading, open canopy.
The bark is light gray and smooth with lenticels (pores) that are evident on close inspection. The leaves are alternate, simple, and broadly ovate to elliptical with a pointed tip. They are up to about 12 cm long and wide, green above and paler below.
The flowers are large (up to 15 cm diameter), showy, and trumpet-shaped, occurring in clusters at the ends of branches.
The petals are white or light pink with a deep red or purple center. The fruit is a capsule up to about 12 cm long and wide, containing numerous seeds.
Hibiscus denudatus can be distinguished from other Texas hibiscuses by its smooth bark, light green leaves, large flowers with white petals and red centers, and hairy fruit capsules.
It is most likely to be confused with Hibiscus clypeatus, which has similar leaves and flowers but differs in having hairy fruits and a more spreading habit.
Hibiscus denudatus is a popular ornamental plant in Texas and elsewhere. It is often used as a hedge or screen, and can also be trained as a small tree. It is relatively drought-tolerant and does not require much care once established.
9. Hibiscus diversifolius (the swamp hibiscus)
Hibiscus diversifolius is a wetland plant that can be found in the eastern and central United States. It has broad, dark green leaves and large, showy flowers with five petals that range in color from white to deep red.
Hibiscus diversifolius grows best in moist soil near ponds or streams, but it can also be found in damp woods or meadows.
10. Hibiscus fragilis (the mandrinette)
Hibiscus fragilis (the mandrinette) is a species of hibiscus. The flowers are white with purple streaks and have a diameter of about 12 cm (0.47 in). The plant blooms from mid-summer to early autumn.
The leaves are simple, ovate-acute, and measure up to 15 cm (0.59 in) long and 12 cm (0.47 in) wide. The plant is a shrub that can grow up to two meters tall.
It is native to the Mediterranean region, but has been introduced to other parts of the world, such as Australia and California.
The mandrinette is a popular ornamental plant, and is often used in gardens and parks.
The flowers are edible, and can be eaten fresh or made into jams and jellies.
11. Hibiscus furcellatus (Hawaiian pink hibiscus)
Hibiscus furcellatus is a species of hibiscus endemic to the Hawaiian Islands. It is known by the common names Hawaiian pink hibiscus, ōhia lehua (from its resemblance to the Lehua blossom), and ōhia ha.
It is an evergreen shrub or small tree growing to a height of about 15 feet (about five meters). The leaves are large, up to 12 inches (30 cm) long and wide.
The flowers are showy, brightly colored, with a red or pink petal tube and white or yellow petals. They appear in clusters at the ends of the branches from late winter to early summer.
The fruit is a green or red capsule about an inch (two and a half cm) long.
The Hawaiian pink hibiscus is used as an ornamental plant in gardens worldwide. It is also grown for its flowers, which are used to make leis. The flowers are also eaten as a delicacy, and the fruit is made into jams and jellies.
The Hawaiian pink hibiscus is closely related to the common hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis), which is native to Asia.
12. Hibiscus grandiflorus (Swamp rose-mallow)
Hibiscus grandiflorus, commonly known as swamp rose-mallow or simply rose mallow, is a perennial plant in the hibiscus family, Malvaceae. It is native to North America, where it occurs in the eastern and southern United States and in southeastern Canada. This plant is also cultivated as an ornamental flower.
The leaves of Hibiscus grandiflorus are cordate (heart-shaped) to ovate (egg-shaped), and measure up to 16 cm (about six inches) in length. The flowers are large, trumpet-shaped, and range in color from white to pink to red. They typically open during the day and close at night.
The fruit of Hibiscus grandiflorus is a schizocarp, meaning that it splits into two parts (segments) as it matures. Each segment contains one or two seeds.
The flowers and fruit of Hibiscus grandiflorus are edible and have a sweet, musky taste. The leaves can also be eaten, but they are somewhat bitter.
13. Hibiscus hamabo (Hamabo Hibiscus Hardy Yellow Hibiscus)
Hibiscus hamabo is a species of hibiscus. It is native to Asia, specifically China and Japan. The flowers are yellow with red stripes and the plant can grow up to six feet tall.
Hibiscus hamabo is an evergreen shrub that blooms from July to September. This species is grown in gardens for its flowers, which are used in arrangements. The hibiscus is also the state flower of Louisiana.
14. Hibiscus heterophyllus (native rosella or toilet paper bush)
Hibiscus heterophyllus, also known as the native rosella or toilet paper bush, is a species of flowering plant in the mallow family Malvaceae. The plant is native to Australia and New Guinea.
It is a shrub growing to two metres tall with dark green, deeply lobed leaves. The flowers are red with five petals, and appear in summer.
The species has become naturalized in many other parts of the world, including Hawaii, where it is known as pua aloalo. It is a popular garden plant, grown for its attractive flowers.
15. Hibiscus insularis (the Phillip Island hibiscus)
Hibiscus insularis (the Phillip Island hibiscus) is a small shrub that grows up to 0.75 metres high. It has dark green leaves and bright pink flowers. The flowers are about six centimetres across, and have five petals.
The Phillip Island hibiscus is found on Phillip Island in Victoria, Australia. It grows in heathland and forest.
The hibiscus is a member of the Malvaceae family, which includes cotton and hollyhocks. It is closely related to the rose of Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus).
Hibiscus insularis was first described by botanist Robert Brown in 1827.
The Phillip Island hibiscus is found on Phillip Island in Victoria, Australia. It grows in heathland and forest.
16. Hibiscus laevis (Halberdleaf rosemallow)
Hibiscus laevis is a North American perennial that can grow to be up to six feet tall. The leaves are large, up to eighteen inches long and ten inches wide, with a long petiole. The flowers are showy, five-petaled rosy-purple or white blooms that appear from late summer into fall.
H. laevis is easy to grow in moist, fertile soil in full sun or partial shade. It will self-seed and spread over time, so it’s best suited for a large garden plot or native plant meadow.
17. Hibiscus lasiocarpos (Woolly rose-mallow)
Hibiscus lasiocarpos is a species of hibiscus native to the southeastern United States. It is a member of the genus Hibiscus and is in the mallow family, Malvaceae.
The Woolly rose-mallow grows in wetland habitats such as swamps, marshes, and floodplains. It is a perennial plant that can grow up to six feet tall.
The Woolly rose-mallow has large, woolly leaves and pink or white flowers. The plant blooms from June to September.
18. Hibiscus moscheutos (swamp rose mallow)
Hibiscus moscheutos, also known as swamp rose mallow, is a large perennial herbaceous flowering plant of the family Malvaceae.
It can be found in wet habitats such as marshes, swamps and riverbanks. The plant has showy flowers that come in shades of white, pink, red and purple.
19. Hibiscus moscheutos ‘Airbrush Effect’
Hibiscus moscheutos ‘Airbrush Effect’’ is a new and unique variety with beautiful, variegated foliage. The leaves are green and white, with a hint of pink in the center. This hibiscus is perfect for adding color and interest to your garden.
Hibiscus moscheutos ‘Airbrush Effect’ is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. It can be grown in full sun or partial shade, and it is tolerant of a wide range of soils. This hibiscus will thrive in any garden, and it is sure to add beauty and interest.
20. Hibiscus Moscheutos ‘Luna Red’ (Hardy Hibiscus ‘Luna Red’)
Hibiscus Moscheutos ‘Luna Red’’ (Hardy Hibiscus ‘Luna Red’) is a cultivar of the species Hibiscus moscheutos.
It was created by Dr. Bob Polomski of Clemson University, South Carolina, USA.
The plant is a deciduous shrub that reaches a height of 0.75-0.83 metres (29-33 in), and a spread of 0.91–0.91 metres (36-36 in).
The leaves are ovate to cordate, with a toothed margin, and measure up to 20 cm (79 in) long by 15 cm (59 in) wide.
The flowers are red, with a diameter of up to 15 cm (59 in), and bloom from July to September.
The plant is hardy to USDA Zone 05a (-28.89 °C (-20 °F)).
21. Hibiscus mutabilis (Confederate rose)
Hibiscus mutabilis, also known as Confederate rose, cotton rose, and Louisiana hibiscus, is a species of flowering plant in the mallow family, Malvaceae. It is native to China, but it has been introduced to other parts of Asia as well as North America.
The plant is a shrub or small tree that can grow to a height of about 15 feet. The flowers are large and showy, with five petals that can be white, pink, or red in color.
The Confederate rose is a popular garden plant because of its attractive flowers and its tolerance for a wide range of growing conditions. It can grow in full sun or partial shade and it is tolerant of both dry and moist soils. The flowers are also long-lasting, lasting for several days when cut.
The Confederate rose is a hardy plant that can survive in cold temperatures down to about 0 degrees Fahrenheit. It is also resistant to insect pests and diseases.
The Confederate rose makes an attractive addition to the landscape, and it is a popular choice for use in flower beds, borders, and as a specimen plant. It can also be grown in containers.
22. Hibiscus rosa-sinensis (Chinese hibiscus, shoeblack plant)
Hibiscus rosa-sinensis is a species of flowering plant in the Hibiscus family, native to East Asia.
It is extensively cultivated in many regions for its flowers.
The flower is large, with five or more petals, and comes in a range of colors including red, pink, orange, yellow, and white.
23. Hibiscus rosa-sinensis ‘Brilliant’ (Chinese Hibiscus ‘Brilliant’)
Hibiscus rosa-sinensis ‘Brilliant’’ is a cultivar of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis. The flowers are brilliant red with dark green leaves. It is a very popular plant in tropical and subtropical regions.
Hibiscus rosa-sinensis ‘Brilliant’ can be grown in pots or in the ground. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It is a relatively fast-growing plant and can reach up to six feet tall.
Hibiscus rosa-sinensis ‘Brilliant’ is an excellent plant for containers or as a accent plant in the landscape. It can also be used as a hedge or screen.
24. Hibiscus rosa-sinensis ‘El Capitolio’ (Tropical Hibiscus ‘El Capitolio’)
Hibiscus rosa-sinensis ‘El Capitolio’’ (Tropical Hibiscus ‘El Capitolio) is a beautiful hibiscus variety that features large, showy blooms in shades of red and yellow. It makes an excellent addition to any garden, and can be grown as a potted plant or outdoor shrub.
Hibiscus rosa-sinensis ‘El Capitolio’ is a hybrid of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis and Hibiscus mutabilis. It was created in Cuba in the early twentieth century, and gets its name from the Cuban National Capitol Building where it was first grown.
The flowers of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis ‘El Capitolio’ are large and showy, with a diameter of up to 12 cm. They are red or yellow in color, with a dark center. The flowers blooms on new growth, so it is important to prune the plant regularly to encourage flowering.
25. Hibiscus rosa-sinensis ‘Eye of Kali’ (Hibiscus ‘Eye of Kali’)
Hibiscus rosa-sinensis ‘Eye of Kali’ is a tropical hibiscus with stunning, deep maroon flowers that have yellow eyes. It is a relatively new cultivar that was introduced in 2006.
The ‘Eye of Kali’ hibiscus is a hybrid of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis and Hibiscus schizopetalus. It is named after the Hindu goddess Kali, who is often depicted with maroon flowers in her hair.
This tropical hibiscus is native to China and India. It was introduced to the West Indies in the 17th century and has been naturalized in many tropical regions around the world.
The ‘Eye of Kali’ hibiscus is a vigorous grower and can reach a height of 12 feet or more. It prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil.
The ‘Eye of Kali’ hibiscus is one of the most beautiful tropical hibiscuses available and it makes an excellent addition to any garden.
26. Hibiscus rosa-sinensis ‘Red Dragon’ (Tropical Hibiscus ‘Red Dragon’)
Hibiscus rosa-sinensis ‘Red Dragon’’ is a beautiful tropical hibiscus variety that features large, dark red flowers with showy yellow stamens. This plant is easy to grow and makes an excellent addition to any garden or container planting. ‘Red Dragon’ blooms throughout the summer and into fall, providing months of vibrant color.
Hibiscus rosa-sinensis ‘Red Dragon’ is a beautiful tropical hibiscus variety that features large, dark red flowers with showy yellow stamens. This plant is easy to grow and makes an excellent addition to any garden or container planting.
27. Hibiscus sabdariffa (Roselle)
Hibiscus sabdariffa is a species of Hibiscus native to West Africa. It is an annual or perennial herbaceous plant growing to 0.75– metre (30 in) tall.
The leaves are deeply lobed, up to 30 cm long and 15 cm broad. The flowers are large, round, bright red, and about 12 cm diameter.
The fruit is an edible red capsule up to 15 cm diameter, containing numerous black seeds.
The hibiscus sabdariffa plant has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries in Africa and Asia. In traditional Chinese medicine, it is known as shi zhi (冰糖莲子). It is used to cool the blood, lower cholesterol, and aid in digestion.
Hibiscus sabdariffa is also used as a natural food colorant. The red calyces are used to give a pink or red color to drinks such as herbal teas and punches.
28. Hibiscus schizopetalus (Spider hibiscus)
Hibiscus schizopetalus, also known as spider hibiscus, is a beautiful tropical flowering plant. It is native to Mexico and Central America but can be found in other warm climates around the world.
The flowers are large and showy, with five petals that are often deep red or purple in color. They are pollinated by hummingbirds and butterflies.
29. Hibiscus splendens (splendid hibiscus)
Hibiscus splendens is a species of hibiscus native to the Indian subcontinent, where it is widely cultivated. The plant is an evergreen shrub or small tree growing to a height of 0.
The leaves are oblong-elliptic, glossy dark green, with a paler margin. The flowers are large and showy, deep red or magenta, with a white basal spot on the petals.
The species is widely cultivated as an ornamental garden plant. The flowers are sometimes used to make tea.
30. Hibiscus syriacus (Common Hibiscus)
Hibiscus syriacus is a species of flowering plant in the mallow family Malvaceae, native to much of Asia and parts of Africa. It is also widely cultivated across the tropics as an ornamental plant.
The species produces woody stems and showy flowers that range from deep red to white. The leaves are deeply lobed and the flowers are up to 15 cm (about six inches) in diameter.
Hibiscus syriacus is a hardy perennial and can be grown in USDA zones four through nine. It prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. The plants are drought tolerant but will flower best with regular watering. Propagate by seed or stem cuttings.
Hibiscus syriacus is generally pest and disease free. However, aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites can be a problem. Scale insects can also infest the plants. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil sprays.
31. Hibiscus Syriacus ‘Aphrodite’
Hibiscus Syriacus ‘Aphrodite’’ is a beautiful addition to any garden. With its deep pink flowers and glossy green leaves, it is sure to add color and interest all season long.
Aphrodite grows best in full sun but will also tolerate part shade. It makes an excellent choice for borders, containers, or as a standalone specimen plant.
Hibiscus Syriacus ‘Aphrodite’ is a deciduous shrub that blooms in mid to late summer. The flowers are borne on new growth, so be sure to prune it back in early spring to encourage plenty of fresh growth and an abundance of flowers. Aphrodite is relatively low maintenance and is resistant to pests and diseases.
32. Hibiscus syriacus ‘Oiseau Bleu’ (Rose of Sharon ‘Oiseau Bleu’)
Hibiscus syriacus ‘Oiseau Bleu’’ (Rose of Sharon ‘Oiseau Bleu’) is a stunning deciduous shrub that is perfect for adding late summer and early fall color to the garden.
The large, blue flowers are produced in profusion from midsummer to early fall and are a real hummingbird magnet!
This easy-to-grow shrub is perfect for a low-maintenance garden and will thrive in full sun to partial shade. ‘Oiseau Bleu’ is a vigorous grower and can reach up to 12 feet tall and wide, so be sure to give it plenty of room to spread.
33. Hibiscus Syriacus ‘White Chiffon’
Hibiscus Syriacus ‘White Chiffon’’ is an evergreen shrub that typically grows to be about . It blooms from late spring to early fall, producing fragrant white flowers. This hibiscus is a great choice for use in mixed borders, perennial gardens, or as a hedge.
Hibiscus Syriacus ‘White Chiffon’ grows best in full sun to part shade and prefers moist, well-drained soils. It is drought tolerant and resistant to pests and diseases.
34. Hibiscus trionum (flower-of-an-hour)
Hibiscus trionum is an annual that grows to about two feet tall. The flowers are showy, occurring in shades of white, pink, and red. They open for just one day. Hibiscus blooms best in full sun and well-drained soil.
35. Hibiscus waimeae (white Kauai rosemallow, Kokiʻo keʻokeʻo)
Hibiscus waimeae, also known as the white Kauai rosemallow, is a species of hibiscus native to the island of Kauai in Hawaii. It is a member of the Hibiscus subgenus Hibiscus and is closely related to Hibiscus brackenridgei.
Hibiscus waimeae is a small shrub growing to a height of 0.75-meter (30-inch). It has dark green leaves with a reddish underside, and white flowers with five petals which are up to 12 centimeters (five inches) in diameter.
The fruit is a hairy capsule about half a centimeter long.
FAQs
What is the hardiest hibiscus?
The hardiest hibiscus is the Rose of Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus). It is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 12 feet tall and wide. The Rose of Sharon blooms from mid-summer to fall and its flowers can be white, pink, purple, or blue. The plant is hardy in zones four through nine.
What colors do hardy hibiscus come in?
Hardy hibiscus come in many colors, including white, pink, red, purple, and yellow. Some varieties even have multi-colored flowers. Hardy hibiscus are a popular choice for gardens because they are easy to care for and provide vibrant color all summer long.
Conclusion
Hibiscus is a beautiful flower that can be found in many different colors. They are popular in bouquets and arrangements, and make a lovely addition to any garden. If you’re looking for a plant that will add some color to your yard, hibiscus is a great choice. Just be sure to give it plenty of sun and water, and it will thrive. Thanks for reading!