How to grow garden hibiscus in the middle lane. Growing and caring for garden hibiscus

Exotic lovers will love the unpretentious, beautiful hibiscus flower. Flowers, similar to magical butterflies, amaze with a variety of shapes, sizes and a rich palette of colors. Rosan Chinese, ketmiya, okra, Sudanese rose, Syrian rose - a list of wonderful names for this magnificent shrub.

Hibiscus is native to Southeast Asia and Polynesia. In Malaysia, he is one of the symbols of the country. His image is printed on coins. And in Hawaii it is called the flower of beautiful women. During national holidays, Hawaiian girls and women adorn their hair. amazing colors hibiscus.

Hibiscus differ from each other in size, color and shape of flowers and leaves. It is impossible to remember all the names of this beautiful plant. All colors of the rainbow and shades have large double or single flowers. They, like, are very popular in Russia.

And although you can only admire the beauty of a flower for a day, it adorns itself for 8 months. The secret is that in place of a fallen flower, a new bud appears. You just need to take care of him and know the features of caring for him. We can distinguish its main types.

Hibiscus hybrid

So named because it was bred by crossing red, pink and holly flowers. It is bred because of the huge flowers of indescribable beauty. This herbaceous plant has been decorating parks and courtyards for many years.

Hibiscus Chinese

More commonly known as Chinese rose. This shrub can grow from two to three meters. It has oval dark green leaves with serrated edges. Rose has about 500 varieties. Has a rich palette of colors: from snow-white to purple. Flower petals are often double, reaching up to 15 cm.

Hibiscus dissected

This shrub has small red or orange flowers with fringed, recurved edges. The leaves of the shrub are glossy, have a green color.

Most often this plant is used to create landscape compositions. It can be planted separately, it can be a group to form a hedge. There are about 250 varieties.

Among them there are shrubs, and trees, and herbaceous plants. In temperate climates, Syrian hibiscus is most often planted.

Growing this beautiful plant is easy. The main thing is to know the rules for caring for him, listen to the advice of gardeners.

Place for planting and watering

For successful cultivation shrubs, you need to take care of the landing site.

Hibiscus is a thermophilic and photophilous plant. Therefore, the place should be well lit and protected from wind and cold. The soil should be light and permeable.

In extreme heat, mulch will help maintain moisture: straw, fallen needles, chopped bark, and so on. Dry air can cause wrinkling of leaves and dropping of buds on a shrub. Therefore, it is necessary to spray the plant abundantly.

Planting, care and propagation of plants

Florists recommend planting it in well-warmed soil. It is advisable to take seedlings strong, with a well-developed root system. It will be easier for the plant to endure seasonal hardships, gain strength over the summer and prepare for the meeting of winter cold.

Propagating hibiscus is very easy. Most often, gardeners cut off a suitable cutting, put it in water. Branches with three nodes are suitable for cuttings. It is advisable to cover the top with a container to maintain humidity. When the roots appear, it is transplanted into a pot with earth. It is advisable to take the earth from the garden, adding a third of the peat to the soil.

For the winter period, the pot can be taken indoors, or the cuttings can be planted in the ground. It is necessary to wrap it up for the winter in order to preserve the young root system. Thanks to this method, the species characteristics of the flower are preserved and next year it will delight gardeners with flowering.

Secondly, hibiscus can be propagated by dividing the bush. This method depends on the number of shoots and age. It is advisable to thin out the bush every year. This will prevent the flowers from fading.

The most time-consuming method is propagation by seeds. Seeds are sown in the soil at the end of February, having previously treated them with epina. It is also necessary to take a prepared soil composition: peat and sand mixed in equal amounts are added to the soil.

The container is covered with glass, periodically opening for watering and ventilation. When 3-4 leaves appear on the seedlings, the plant is stopped and transplanted into pots. If all the recommendations are followed correctly, then in the third year the plant will delight with beautiful flowers.

The winter vacation

With the onset of cold weather, reduce the amount of watering. After the foliage falls from the flower, it is cut off, stepping back from the root 8-10 cm. To prevent the plant from dying, it is covered with paper bags, mats, straw or sawdust. Sometimes it is watered to moisten the soil.

You can dig up the plant and plant it in a pot together with a clod of earth. In this form, send it for the winter in the basement or in the room. At home, the flower will remind you of summer with its greenery and flowers.

top dressing

Fertilizing the flower is carried out every week, always after watering. For dense foliage, fertilizers with a high nitrogen content are selected. For lush flowering and growth, it is desirable to alternate mineral and organic fertilizers. With the onset of cold weather, the rose must be prepared for winter. To do this, from September 2-3 times it is necessary to feed it with any potash fertilizer.

shrub pruning

Lovers of the Syrian rose (as garden hibiscus is most often called) need to remember that new flowers appear only on young shoots. Therefore, the bush should be trimmed. You can cut it after the age of two and do it annually to improve and form a bush.

Branches that pleased with their color must be removed. On cut branches will appear side shoots on which peduncles will form. This will contribute to the formation of buds next year. Be sure to cut out weak and diseased branches, leaving up to two cm from the bud with leaves. Shoots growing inside the bush and those that grow parallel to the main trunk are to be removed.

Pruning is done before the beginning of the active phase of the life of the bush, at the end of winter. He is not afraid of pruning. It gives the flower a well-groomed appearance, rejuvenates it and stimulates lush flowering. With careful care, garden hibiscus can grow in a permanent location for up to 20 years.

Photo of hibiscus

Pests and diseases of hibiscus

Although the Syrian rose is an unpretentious plant, gardeners can face some unpleasant difficulties when growing it.

1. The buds are falling off. This is due to lack of fertilizer, lack of moisture, cold.
2. Leaves withered. It is necessary to review the amount of moisture, lighting, nutrients (lack or excess), as well as temperature fluctuations.
3. Absence of flowers with abundant foliage. The reason lies in the excess of nitrogen fertilizer or lack of watering in the spring.
4. Root disease. Lack of moisture in dry weather.
5. Leaf chlorosis (yellowing and falling of leaves, drying of the tops of the shoots). Deficiency of iron and magnesium, wetting of the roots, low acidity of the soil.
6. Falling leaves. Long-term drying of the soil.

Most often, hibiscus suffers from attacks by spider mites, aphids, thrips, scale insects. For prevention, the plant should be sprayed soapy water, and then Actellik insecticide.

Exotic room decoration

People who want to see this flowering bush all year round, it is advisable to breed indoor hibiscus. It looks very nice among other indoor plants.

The flower purifies the air in the room, fills the air with a delicate and pleasant aroma, and has a positive effect on other indoor flowers. It can be grown like a tree, or it can be shaped beautiful bush various shapes. Indoor hibiscus is unpretentious, but you need to know some features of caring for it.

1. Lighting. The flower feels comfortable near the windows that face west and east. It is not recommended to put on the windowsill. Rectilinear sunlight adversely affects hibiscus leaves.

On warm days, the flower can be taken out to the balcony or garden. It is necessary to ensure that the rose does not stand in a draft. In winter, it is necessary to organize additional lighting for hibiscus. With poor lighting, the plant will not please with lush flowering.

2. Watering. It is necessary to water the flower regularly with settled water. When the soil dries out, the rose drops flowers. Spraying flower tolerates very well. In spring and summer, it should be watered as often as possible, but with the advent of autumn, the amount of watering should be reduced.

Humid air has a very beneficial effect on flower growth. The easiest way is to put a humidifier, or you can put a flower pot in a tray. Pour expanded clay or pebbles into it, moistening them periodically. To prevent the roots from getting wet, there should be no water in the pan.

3. Transplant. Young plants should be repotted every year. The pot should be selected 5-10 cm larger than the previous one. Narrow pots will keep the hibiscus from throwing flowers away. Garden soil, sand and peat are prepared for transplantation (2: 1: 1). You can add finely crushed charcoal.

Drainage should be placed at the bottom of the pot. Mature plants are transplanted once every three years. In between, it is enough to change upper layer earth.

How to transplant hibiscus

Useful properties of hibiscus

• From the flowers of the Sudanese rose (sabdarif) they make real Hibiscus tea. But at home, it does not grow. People learned how to cook healing teas from Chinese hibiscus. Grind 5 g of petals and insist in a glass of warm water for 7-8 hours. This infusion is good to rinse your mouth with inflammatory processes, drink with insomnia, with hypertension. The leaves and petals, ground into gruel, help with abscesses.
• A decoction of Chinese rose flowers is used to prepare a hair conditioner, and the slurry from the flowers is used as a shampoo, as a mask, and as a hair dye. Hair after such washing looks simply gorgeous.
• Okra fruits (edible hibiscus) are widely used in cooking. They are fried, stewed, boiled, frozen, canned. Unripe fruits successfully replace green peas, and Gombo coffee is prepared from mature and roasted ones.
• Hibiscus seeds and roots are used in medicine.

The extraordinary world of hibiscus gives people a sense of beauty, peace and tranquility.

Hibiscus is a tree, shrub or herbaceous plant from the Malvaceae family. There are about 200 of its varieties, and therefore the cultivation garden hibiscus- very an exciting activity for flower growers around the world. One of the species (Sudanese rose) is used to make Hibiscus tea. Okra, okra - edible hibiscus, its cultivation is possible on garden plot or on the balcony. A popular indoor flower - - grows in open ground in countries with a warm climate. In our latitudes, it is suitable only for container gardening: flowers are taken outside in the summer and brought back when it gets colder. At home, hibiscus tree, or Syrian, is also grown - a deciduous shrub that has a pronounced dormant period and requires certain wintering conditions.

Garden types of hibiscus

Growing garden hibiscus on the site and caring for it is not a hassle; this plant allows you to decorate a shady corner with large, bright flowers. Breeders have bred several varieties that can be planted in central Russia, but they require winter shelter or digging out of the ground. There are frost-resistant species, but they are rarely found on sale.

Hibiscus are suitable for regions with a temperate climate:

• trifoliate,
• Syrian,
• marsh,
• grassy,
• garden.

Syrian and garden hibiscus are often confused, because for the first there is another name - tree-like. In southern countries, he received the nickname - "flower of love." Usually it is a shrub about 1.5-2 meters in height, completely covered with large simple or double flowers, similar to mallow. The classic colors are white and lilac, but now others have also been bred: pink, red, blue. Marsh hibiscus, or okra, okra, is a highly ornamental shrub with large flowers, usually pink or red. It is frost-resistant, tolerates temperatures down to -30 ° C.

Herbaceous hibiscus grows up to 3 meters in height - it is a frost-resistant shrub that blooms from August to September. Its stems are massive, erect, with large leaves resembling sunflower leaves. Flowers can be white, light pink or red. Growing and caring for it is very simple. The plant is sun-loving, undemanding to the composition of the soil, therefore it is popular among flower growers. For the winter, it is cut off at the root, and in the spring it grows back. There are more than 1000 hybrids of herbaceous hibiscus. annual plant with small light yellow flowers that open in the morning for several hours.

Garden hibiscus is a hybrid herbaceous perennial, resulting from the crossing of 3 species: red, pink and holly. Differs in decorative foliage and large showy flowers, the size of which can reach 40 cm. Care is simple.


There are several hybrids.

• Youth is a plant with light green leaves and purple flowers resembling a tulip shape.
• Late - shrub with oval leaves and crimson bell-shaped flowers, grows up to 1 m.
• Pale pink - a plant up to 2 meters high, yellowish foliage, bright pink flowers, tulip-shaped.
• Pink porcelain- a medium-sized bush up to 1.5 m high, flowers are large, pink, with a white throat, in the form of bells. Bright green succulent leaves on long petioles.

Hibiscus for container gardening

The following species are used as tub culture on the site.

1. Dissected hibiscus (Schizopetalus)- the petals of the flowers of this species are strongly dissected and bent back. Outwardly, it resembles a domesticated Chinese. Flowering lasts from spring to autumn.
2. Chinese hibiscus- Shrub with flowers of various sizes and shades. Growing as a houseplant is common, but for the summer it can be taken out into the garden. Caring for a tubular flower consists in abundant watering and top dressing.

Growing these plants is not difficult, but there are some rules that must be followed in order for hibiscus to grow healthy and strong.

Garden Hibiscus Care

Landing is carried out on a site with nutritious and breathable soil, in a place protected from winds and bright sun. Shrubs are planted in the spring, then by autumn the young plants will have time to take root. Growing garden hibiscus outdoors will require a deep landing pit, which must be filled with a thick layer of drainage - at least 15 cm - with sand and rotted compost. Garden soil mixed with sand and peat is laid out on this mixture.

Plants are placed in a hole so that the root collar is level with the soil, it is not necessary to deepen it - this can lead to decay. Then sprinkled with soil and watered abundantly. Planting and care before the winter period should be accompanied by soil mulching. Additionally, it is better to insulate the seedlings with spruce branches.

Further care for garden hibiscus consists in abundant watering, regular loosening of the soil, pruning and top dressing. It is necessary to water the shrub as the soil dries out with warm, settled water; on hot days, more liquid will be required. Some types of hibiscus with a lack of moisture lower their leaves. It is advisable to feed the shrub in the spring-summer period once every 2 weeks with a phosphorus-containing fertilizer.

Loosening the soil improves aeration, allows the root system to breathe. Prune garden and tree hibiscus better in spring or at the beginning of summer - this favorably affects flowering, facilitates care and helps to give the tree a beautiful shape. It is important to properly prepare young trees for the dormant period: before the onset of frost, the garden hibiscus is cut and watered abundantly, after which the soil around is mulched using dry foliage and. Young plants are wrapped or bent to the ground. For shelter, a frame and a special material, such as agrotex, are used.

pruning hibiscus

Spring plant care consists in pruning branches. This is a necessary procedure for both indoor and garden species. It is produced after a dormant period, when the bush has not yet had time to start growing. Proper shortening of the shoots has a positive effect on flowering, improves branching and appearance shrub.

In some species, flower buds are laid only at the ends of new shoots, therefore, without pruning, the plant may stop blooming. Tree and garden hibiscus is well formed, you can give it any shape, for example, turning it into a standard tree. The cuttings obtained during pruning are used for plant propagation.

You should not get rid of the hibiscus rhizome in early spring - these plants wake up late, and it is better to wait a while than to uproot a still living bush.

Propagation of hibiscus cuttings

Garden and tree hibiscus reproduces very simply: by seeds, cuttings, grafting. Cuttings begin in the summer, before flowering. To do this, shoots with several internodes are cut from the bush, the ends are powdered with a root formation stimulator and planted in a greenhouse with peat soil. Rooting lasts about a month, when the shoots start to grow, they are transplanted into pots with a nutrient substrate and grown there until a bush is formed. After that, it is possible to plant plants in open ground.

Young plants do not have the frost resistance of adults, so they need to be covered for the winter or dug up, transplanted into pots and stored until spring in the cellar or in the dark on a glazed balcony.

The water method is also suitable for grafting, but when using it, most of the leaves are removed from the shoot, leaving 3-4, large ones are cut by a third to reduce evaporation. An activated charcoal tablet is added to the water to prevent decay. Hibiscus cuttings usually propagate successfully.

How to propagate hibiscus seeds

Growing from seed is the easiest way to propagate these plants. Garden hibiscus, obtained in this way, blooms in the year of planting, and Syrian - only in the third year. It is better to start sowing in winter, from the end of January. Seeds need fresh, they do not need stratification. Planting is carried out in a mixture of peat and sand, before it, the seed must be soaked in a growth stimulator for a day.

Crops are watered and covered with a bag or placed in a greenhouse, placing it in a bright and warm place where the temperature is not lower than +25 ° C. Before the appearance of friendly shoots, care for seedlings consists in regular airing and spraying. Outdoor cultivation starts from the end of May, when the danger of frost has passed. Plants are planted in a permanent place, protected from drafts and the scorching sun.

Diseases and pests

Spider mites are considered the main pests of hibiscus. They multiply rapidly in hot and dry conditions, covering the bush with white cobwebs. Yellow dots appear on the leaves, the buds do not open, but dry up and fall off. In case of severe damage, the plants must be treated with special preparations. There are also folk recipes getting rid of this pest: spraying with infusion of garlic, solution essential oils(10 drops per 1 liter of water) and others. Bushes are sometimes affected by aphids. These are fairly large insects, visible to the naked eye. When they appear, insecticides are used.

Hibiscus can suffer from chlorosis, while the leaf plate turns yellow, only the central veins remain green. The disease most often occurs due to a lack of nutrients, especially iron. It is necessary to add additional organo-mineral fertilizers to the soil and spray iron chelate over the leaf. Lack of nutrition is also indicated by such signs as the lack of flowering, frequent yellowing and falling of leaves, and poor development of shoots. If the care of the plant is incorrect, there may be fungal diseases caused by over watering or low water temperature.

So, hibiscus - can be trees, bushes or herbs. They prefer a sunny location, abundant watering and fertilizing with phosphorus fertilizers. In central Russia, some frost-resistant varieties can be grown in open ground, but most species require shelter for the winter with special material or spruce branches.

Perennial shrubs such as garden and tree hibiscus (Syrian) shed their foliage for the winter, but herbaceous species rarely retain the above-ground part, growing anew from the rhizome every spring. The main diseases are associated with care errors and malnutrition. Of the pests, mites and aphids are often affected. Plants are well propagated by seeds and cuttings.

Chinese rose has long been known in many countries of the world, as it is distinguished by its bright colors, ease of care and abundant, long flowering. In total, more than 250 varieties of this evergreen shrub are known, which in nature reaches 6 meters. Hibiscus comes from Southeast Asia, but its other varieties are from America, Africa and the Pacific Islands.

At home, caring for Chinese hibiscus is not great work, so the shrub in the room grows up to 2 meters without any problems. It has oval, long dark green leaves with small serrated edges. The size of its buds can be different, but the maximum reaches 14 cm. The color of the petals is different. It can be white and fiery red, pink and cream, yellow and orange. Usually the buds appear in early spring and are replaced until late autumn, however, for this, hibiscus rose care must be correct.

In its homeland, hibiscus is considered not only decorative flower, but also an excellent healer, because the shoots and young leaves of the flower are used for cooking. In addition, the roots, seeds, fruits and leaves of roses are used in traditional medicine. In production, flowers are used to produce paint for the food industry and cosmetology. And many people know very tasty Hibiscus tea. This is the Chinese rose petals, which are dried and added to fruit tea.

When caring for indoor hibiscus at home, you need to remember that he loves well-lit window sills, but does not tolerate direct sunlight, so his leaves can get burned. In the summer, the flower can be taken out into the street, but it must be placed in a place where there is no wind and draft. The most optimal temperature for this shrub is from +18 to +21 degrees. If the care and watering is good, the Chinese rose will bloom from spring to autumn. It is very important during flowering to provide good watering and soil drainage.

Daily spraying will give a good appearance to the flower, especially if hibiscus grows in winter in a room where heating elements dry the air. Many people complain that their rose does not bloom, what's the matter? Not everyone knows that the flower buds of this plant are formed at the very optimum temperature+15 degrees. With such a temperature, the earth does not dry out, and watering becomes rare. Therefore, if there is the right hibiscus: care and cultivation, then flowering will come very quickly.

Many have seen that huge roses in tubs grow in office buildings and educational institutions, because it is cool there, so the plant feels great in such a climate and endows others with abundant flowering during the warm season. Therefore, if the house is cool enough, then this is the best option for a Chinese rose. But if the apartment is very hot, then for a while it is better to move the flower to coolness, for example, to a balcony or loggia. Watering in winter should be rare, as the plant is in hibernation and does not require much nutrition.

Propagation of a plant by seeds

Almost all ornamental shrubs begin to form seeds after flowering buds, so propagation of hibiscus by seeds is also possible. With the help of seeds, you can get good, strong seedlings that are planted in pots or in open ground, given the variety of shrubs.

In nature, hibiscus self-disperses with the help of birds and wind. After a while, the seeds sink into the ground and germinate. In a harsh climate with great frosts, the seeds simply do not ripen. If the flower grows in the southern regions, then hibiscus seeds are very easy to propagate. Each type of this ornamental shrub able to reproduce in this way, but the grassy species is best of all in this regard.

Growing hibiscus in open ground: features and varieties

In terms of external qualities, a flower can be in the form of a shrub, tree or herbaceous plant, so hibiscus care and reproduction in the open field may differ slightly. For example, a tree variety is usually grown outdoors as a small shrub or standard tree. This variety should include the Syrian rose, which grows up to 1.5 meters. The herbaceous appearance has many hybrid varieties, which are annuals and perennials, and each hibiscus in the spring is attractive in its own way.

Despite such a variety of species and varieties of Chinese roses, they all have common features. For example, their leaves are petiolate, incised, the flowers are bright, large, there is a hibiscus yellow terry or simple, large or small. Regarding flowers, red, yellow, white, lilac, crimson, purple, violet and blue petals are very common. And there are spotted varieties that may have a border around the edges of the petals and blotches of a different color. The fruits of the shrub are five-leaved, forming a box with seeds. Today, more than 500 varieties and varieties of this plant are known. For example, Sumish, Copper King, Hardy, Shizopetalus, Fireball.

Varieties of hibiscus flower

There are cultivated and wild types of hibiscus, which are annual or perennial.

The main three types of flowers are shrubby, treelike and herbaceous. The color palette is diverse and includes several thousand colors and colors, the only exceptions are black and blue. There is a variegated hibiscus (Cooper) and with dark green leaves, with large or small flowers, and the largest bud can reach up to 30 cm when opened. Rose seeds are covered with fluff or are completely smooth, given the variety. If this is a hybrid garden hibiscus: its care and reproduction will be different, since many hybrids cannot tolerate frost. In one place, the flower can grow for more than 20 years, in early spring it needs pruning, which makes the bush more branchy. If the conditions are the most comfortable, then the bush can reach a height of 3 meters or more.

Syrian hibiscus

Syrian rose or Ardens is a very beautiful, deciduous shrub, whose height is 6 meters. Its leaves are large - up to 10 cm in length, their color is bright green. In terms of bud size, the Syrian rose is inferior to the Chinese one, but it differs in beautiful, double, two-color flowers. In order to properly care for the Syrian hibiscus in the garden, you need to prune every year a bush or tree that blooms all summer, including the first week of September.

They brought the Syrian rose from Western Asia and China, and today it grows successfully in Moldova, Central Asia, the Caucasus, the Kuban and the Crimea. Very often, planting Ardens hibiscus is carried out in parks, on the streets or squares, where the shrub has gained immense popularity. However, it grows very slowly, so the first flowering begins only after the age of the seedling is three years old.

Growing Syrian hibiscus: planting and care should be the most optimal, given the climate. The rose blooms almost the entire warm period, but the bud lives only one day. Since there are a lot of buds on the tree, the young ones replace the old ones. In one place, a rose bush can be about 20 years old, it needs periodic pruning at the end of winter and after flowering.

tree hibiscus

Quite unpretentious, frost-resistant variety, which is very easy to transplant and prune. It will make a wonderful flowering hedge on any suburban area, will decorate every garden and window sill of the house. Fulfilling good care behind the tree hibiscus, its flowering will be abundant and long. The very first buds bloom in late spring, and the last in late autumn. A garden tree shrub characterized by medium ovate leaves that appear very late. The height of the bush can be up to three meters, and a width of 1.5 meters.

In autumn and spring, the leaves of this type of flower may acquire a yellow tint, which becomes its feature. When transplanting hibiscus, you need to use good, fertile soil for it, where there will be a lot of humus. In order for the bush to give abundant flowering, he needs to choose a quiet, sunny place where there will be no drafts. Watering the flower should be frequent and regular, but the roots should not be allowed to be flooded, as they will rot, and hibiscus diseases that are difficult to cure may develop. In the open field, young seedlings must be closed for the winter, which will help them survive the frost.

Hibiscus marsh

A rather large, herbaceous perennial, which is distinguished by dying off shoots in winter. In height, the plant can reach 2.5 meters, so pruning hibiscus becomes a necessity. Its leaves are heart-shaped with a serrated edge, they are slightly rough on top with a weak edge. The buds of this species are large, simple, up to 20 cm in diameter. The color of the flowers is pink, white, raspberry and red. For planting it is better to choose swampy, sunny places where there is a lot of moisture. It should be noted that marsh hibiscus, unlike other species and varieties, is the only one that grows in a swamp.

Therefore, if in suburban area there is an artificial pond, a wet and lit area, then this flower will become a real decoration of this unclaimed place. When planting swamp hibiscus: planting and caring for it in the open field should include acidic soils where the moisture content is maximum. If planting in a hot area, then it is better to choose partial shade for planting. The ideal place for such a unique flower is next to a stream or a small pond.

herbaceous hibiscus

Among other types of shrubs, herbaceous outdoor perennial hibiscus was obtained by crossing several types of flower - this is marsh, armed and bright red.

It can be annual or perennial, but most of flower growers choose the second option, as it does not require additional care and permanent planting. Each variety of this species is distinguished by incised, petiolate leaves and bright flowers.
Moreover, their color is very different: snow-white, lilac, blue, raspberry, burgundy, yellow and pale pink.

And there is also a hibiscus mix, that is, when there are two shades on one flower. The bush is able to reproduce by seeds that ripen in a five-leaf box. Providing care for herbaceous hibiscus, it will not take much effort and time, since the flower is able to grow beautifully in any climatic conditions, it tolerates frost and drought, does not require mandatory pruning and additional supplements.

When planting herbaceous hibiscus: planting and care should include soil with high levels of acidity. It is advisable to introduce rotted needles and organic fertilizers into the soil before planting. Seedlings of this type of hibiscus are planted in the spring, when there is no threat of frost. Over the summer, young trees will take root and get stronger, so wintering will be successful. Herbaceous varieties grow well in sunny clearings that are protected from drafts and wind. And if there are roses nearby, then their growth and crown condition will only get better. You can read the article:.

Hibiscus in all their diversity are represented all over the world. These magnificent flowers from the common Malvaceae family in the wild and cultivated flora are found in the form of annuals and perennials, evergreen and deciduous trees, shrubs, herbaceous and indoor plants.

In the wet floodplain bows of Southeast Asia, where they come from, you can admire continuous thickets of tender buds with large petals. According to various sources, flowers of the hibiscus family have from 150 to 300 species. Sometimes they are mistakenly confused with Ukrainian mallows. Let's try to understand the features of the most common varieties.

Did you know? In many countries, hibiscus is not just decoration. For example, young leaves and sprouts of some varieties are eaten as vegetables, seeds and roots of others are processed for cooking. medicines, and flowers are used to make black hair dye, crimson food coloring, and hibiscus tea, beloved by many.

Hibiscus hybrid (Hibiscus hybridus)

This perennial is very common in our latitudes, cultivated as an indoor and garden plant. In warm countries, it can only be found as a grassy street decoration. The variety was obtained about 70 years ago by the Soviet botanist - Professor Fedor Rusanov, who is the founder of the Tashkent Botanical Garden in Uzbekistan.

For the bred variety, the breeder successfully selected the mother material - hibiscus from North America: bright red (Hibiscus coccineus), marsh (Hibiscus moscheutos) and armed (Hibiscus militaris). From these herbaceous crops, hybrid hibiscus, in the process of crossing, inherited endurance to low temperatures and large scarlet inflorescences, which reach a diameter of 18 to 25 cm.

The buds open in August and delight the eye with sophisticated beauty until the first frost. For the winter at the garden hibiscus, only powerful rhizomes remain alive, and the stems die off completely. In late spring, they throw out scanty sprouts, similar to spears, stretching up to 2 meters and above, and slowly cover themselves with 3-5-lobed leaves.

Giant single flowers appear already in the second year after planting, they are simple and double. They are also different in color - from pure white to blood red. Faded inflorescences turn into green seed pods, which, when ripe, turn brown and dry.

Caring for representatives of this species does not require additional efforts and knowledge, it is available even to beginners. When planting, it is desirable to place the plant in a sunny area, protecting it from northern winds and shade. Any soil is suitable, of course, hybrid hibiscus will be more comfortable in enriched and well-drained black soil.
The flower tends to tolerate moderate drought and frost. In order for the root system to safely winter, it is covered with mulch or dry leaves for the winter. This type of hibiscus propagates by dividing the rhizome, scion and cuttings.

Important! Dark scarlet spots on the leaves indicate excessive feeding and a simultaneous lack of light.

Indoor specimens love well-lit places, but get burned in direct sunlight. Flowerpots are more suitable for western and eastern sides. In summer, the pot is taken out into the street, protecting it from drafts and rains. With the reduction of daylight hours, there is a need for additional artificial lighting. Otherwise, the inflorescences can not wait.

It is characteristic that at home, hybrid hibiscus during the growing season is kept at a temperature of +20 ° C, and in the autumn-winter time it is accustomed to +16 ° C. If you continue to lower the temperature regime, the flower may shed its foliage. By the way, this is a great reason to do it. pruning. It is needed for crown formation and flower rejuvenation. For this purpose, sprouts are cut at a level of 8-15 cm from the ground.
Competent pruning is always carried out after transplanting a flowerpot or changing the soil in a pot. If you then put the container in a cool place and rarely water it, the culture will go dormant for several months. When new shoots appear, watering and spraying are intensified and sprouts are pinched off from time to time for better branching.

Chinese rose (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis)

In the wild, this variety of hibiscus can be seen in the native islands of the Pacific tropics and in East Asia. Inhabitants of the temperate climate zone of the Northern Hemisphere, the Chinese rose is well known as an indoor crop, and in the subtropics it is cultivated to decorate gardens and greenhouses. The flower is also called "rosanelle".
Evergreen can develop in the form of a bush or a small tree, stretching up to 4 meters. On powerful branches, the bark becomes brown and green on young ones. The leaves are large, oval, sharp at the edges with a glossy surface and slight internal roughness.

Hibiscus roses reach a diameter of 10-15 cm. More often these are simple single flowers with a tall pedicel, a funnel-shaped bell-shaped calyx and long pistillate threads, which, growing together into a tube, go far beyond the petals. Flowering lasts only a couple of days, but due to the appearance of new buds, hibiscus constantly pleases with roses from early spring to late autumn.

Did you know? The Chinese rose can often be found in administrative buildings. At home, they are afraid to grow a flower because of the many superstitions associated with it. Sudden flowering and falling leaves are considered a bad sign. They say that this is unfortunately, illnesses and quarrels in the family.

Simple red flowers are the most common, but in the past two decades, breeders have bred many terry species of various shapes and colors: from pale orange to deep purple. Also appeared undersized species of Dutch origin and hibiscus with variegated leaves of a bright scarlet color with white splashes.
propagate Chinese hibiscus mostly cutting method.

Special care is required for the variety at a young age and during flowering. Mistakes made are affected by the absence of flowers and diseases of the plant. For a lush flowering crown, after rooting, pinch off the top of the seedling, and with the appearance of buds, water and spray the flowerpot daily in the morning and evening, monitor sufficient lighting and feed. In the future, to the extent necessary, it will be necessary to cut weak branches and form a crown.

Mixtures of phosphorus, potash and nitrogen fertilizers are very useful for Chinese roses. liquid top dressing monthly poured under the roots and in a spray bottle for spraying. It is important that the solution does not get on the flowers.

Blackening on the leaves and wilting of the buds- clear signs of infectious diseases that are the result of improper care. Culture is very sensitive to spider mites, felt, thrips, whiteflies and fungi. For prevention, it is recommended not to dry out or overmoisten the soil, to protect the flower from drafts, sudden changes in temperature. In addition, once a month, treat the bush with pesticides.
Unlike superstitious housewives, botanists find explanations for the absence and sudden appearance of flowers, yellowing, falling leaves. Scientists completely dispel the myth that hibiscus flowers are a sign of illness and death, drawing the attention of flower growers to the need to cut the crown of the Chinese rose (otherwise, the entire potential of the plant will go into the growth of branches, and there will be no strength left for flowering). With proper care, the Chinese rose can live up to 20 years and produce spectacular beautiful roses every year.

Important! Indoor and garden hibiscus suffer from leaf chlorosis, which is accompanied by their fall. The reason is an excessive amount of chlorine and calcium in the water for irrigation and a lack of nitrogen and iron. In order to prevent the disease, make sure that the water with which you are going to water the plant is well settled. Feeding is also desirable.

Marsh hibiscus (Hibiscus moscheutos)

Herbaceous perennial popular in flowerbeds of subtropical latitudes. Ukrainian flower growers cultivate it in the open field, rarely - at room conditions. In the people, this type of bush hibiscus is also called "marsh mallow".
It got its name due to two important requirements in care: For full development, the shrub needs water and a sunny lawn. Very comfortable conditions a nearby stream or pond will be created for him.

Despite the unattractive name, the variety attracts gardeners elegant flowers a variety of colors with exquisite rims and bright spots-strokes. The flowering period begins in early summer and ends in autumn. Each flower in diameter reaches from 12 to 16 cm. In place of faded calyxes, seed pods with glossy grains ripen.

The leaves are large, slightly convex, rich green in color, which persists until frost. A frost-resistant plant, like a hybrid hibiscus, in the presence of snow cover can survive 25-degree frosts. At the end of winter or spring (before the movement of the juice and bud break), they begin to crown formation. At the same time, old, diseased and damaged branches are also removed. The swamp mallow retains the given shape all year round.

In favorable conditions, the bush grows up to 3 meters in height and up to 18 meters in width. Based on these features, it is used as a decorated hedge. Moreover, culture can live up to 23 years and is not picky about care at all.
Providing her with a lot of sun and constantly moist, slightly acidic soil when planting, you can count on lush and long flowering. In the shade, swamp hibiscus will not bloom well, actively increasing green biomass.

Important! To root hibiscus by cuttings, sprouts with three buds are cut off, after which they are treated with Kornevin and deepened into a wet mixture of peat and sand. After a month, roots appear.

A characteristic feature of the marsh hibiscus is the lack of reaction to the lack of fertilizers. At the same time, their overkill immediately affects the decorative effect. Any organic matter (applied in spring) and phosphorus-potassium mixtures (applied in autumn) are considered the most suitable for a bush. Traditional care, like any hibiscus, is mandatory watering, loosening the soil and removing weeds.

Syrian hibiscus (Hibiscus syriacus)

Varieties of Syrian hibiscus species are the most common in the post-Soviet territory. They are a fairly tall shrub, from 3 to 6 meters high, with even branches, bright green oval leaves and large single flowers of different shades of scarlet and purple spectrum, which are simple and double. There are also two-color specimens.
The peculiarity of the variety is in the slow development of the shrub. The intensity of its growth will accelerate moderate systematic watering. Do not flood or overdry the soil. When dry, the culture sheds flowers, so in hot weather, daily watering may be needed.

The Syrian hibiscus enters the flowering phase on the 3-4th year of life, begins in May and fades in November. The diameter of the flowers is on average about 12 cm. It is characteristic that the pedicel fades on the day of flowering, but this fact is not noticeable due to the many buds.

The best place for the plant will be a sunny area with well-drained loamy soil. Dislikes limestone. It responds well to pruning, which consists in removing old ones and cutting off branches that are too long. Propagated by cuttings, layering, seeds and scion.

Young seedlings are very sensitive to lower temperatures, so for the winter their root system is spudded with dry foliage or fresh sawdust. If the hibiscus is still affected by frost, new shoots will appear on it in the spring.

Do not rush to conclusions about the death of its roots, since sluggish signs of life appear on the bush in late spring. He develops his cold tolerance as he grows. Old specimens can successfully overwinter at 22 ° C below zero. Terry species are more stable in this aspect.
For a better wintering in autumn, the plant is fed with potassium. And for the intensity of growth and strengthening of the root system, it is poured with a liquid infusion of chicken manure. Alternatively, phosphate fertilizers can be used.

Did you know? IN South Korea very sensitive to Syrian hibiscus. The plant is considered national and believe that it accompanies happiness and love.

In landscape design, Syrian hibiscus is used as a single plant and in compositions, it is given standard and sheared forms, and planted in containers. The plant goes well with lavender, which, in addition to a beautiful decorative picture, drives away pests from shrubs.

When buying a young seedling, you should give preference to specimens with well-grown roots and a strong trunk. The shrub can be propagated by seeds and cuttings.

Hibiscus sour (Hibiscus acetosella)

In the wild, this species is found in the tropics of Africa, for which it is called in unofficial circles. "African mallow". And there are also names "red-leafed hibiscus", "maple leaf sour". And all because of the crimson color of the maple-shaped foliage, which gives the hibiscus an indescribable beauty and uniqueness. At home, young shoots of the culture are widely eaten. They taste sour, reminiscent of sorrel.
The cultivated version was opened by the French. It is assumed that the variety of sour hibiscus in the process of hybridization inherited biological features from Hibiscus asper and Hibiscus surattensis species. Today it is represented by a rich variety of forms.

Outwardly, it is a luxurious perennial shrub, popular in the tropical and subtropical climates of all continents. It can survive mild winters with frosts no more than 8 degrees. In temperate zones it is cultivated as an annual plant. It is characterized by a dense crown, which stretches up to a maximum of 1.5 m and grows in breadth up to 80 cm.

The stems are elastic, straight, covered with light fluff. The leaves are large, as already mentioned, five-lobed with smooth surface, on which the veins are clearly expressed, and an unusual motley coloring. In some species, it acquires greenish, purple or crimson hues.

Hibiscus flowers are small in comparison with the above varieties, reach 5-10 cm in diameter, appear in the upper part of the stems from axillary leaves. There are different colors.

A typical feature of the variety is the harmonious combination of the vein on the foliage with the color of the petals. The exoticism of the buds is complemented by a long, over 2 cm stamen, extending beyond the flower. On faded pedicels, a seed ripens, very reminiscent of chestnuts.

Did you know? In the Congo and Cameroon, sour hibiscus is sold in bunches in markets for use in salads. And in Brazil, the crop is grown as spinach and the foliage is very much appreciated for vitamins C, A, group B, trace elements of iron and antioxidants. Also note the fleshiness in the structure and the property not to lose color and taste during heat treatment. The Angolan people use hibiscus to raise hemoglobin in the blood. And in Central America, it is used to make thirst-quenching burgundy lemonade, which is drunk with lemon and ice. Tea is brewed from flowers. African peoples it is mistakenly called hibiscus, although, in fact, real hibiscus is made from the flower cups of the Sudanese hibiscus.

Today in the flower market, sour hibiscus is presented in different forms. Most common: Red Shield, Panama Red, Panama Bronze, Garden Leader Gro Big Red, Jungle Red. For the most part, these are low-flowering, heat-loving varieties that have gained recognition due to their unique foliage.

As annuals, they adapt well in our latitudes, love moist, well-permeable, slightly acidic soils in sunny areas. Tender stems are afraid of strong winds. Flowering begins in August and lasts a couple of weeks, but all summer and part of autumn the plant flaunts extravagant variegated foliage. For the winter, the roots are dug up and transplanted into a pot. The advantage of the species is resistance to nematodes. This quality is used by breeders when crossing to obtain new breeds.

Hibiscus Arnotti (Hibiscus arnottianus)

On a global scale, this species is known on all continents due to its medicinal properties. The leaves, flowers and bark of the shrub are used to prepare laxative decoctions and to purify the blood. From the Hawaiian Islands, where Arnotti's evergreen hibiscus is native, it has spread far beyond the tropics and subtropics. In temperate climates, it is cultivated as an annual plant.
Among other species of the family, it is distinguished by tall straight stems, which sometimes reach up to 10 m, and fragrant tubular flowers with multi-colored "eyes". The diameter of the flower is over 10 cm. The petals are mostly white with delicate scarlet or purple veins, harmonizing in tone with the pistil towering above the bud.

In its native latitudes, the plant grew among forest trees over 30 m high. Obviously, in the garden plot, the shrub needs to create the closest possible conditions. For full development, it needs enough heat and moisture. Comfort will provide drained black soil. From time to time, it must be enriched with organic matter and mineral complex fertilizers.

For the winter, the roots are transplanted for keeping at room conditions. Some gardeners grow varieties of this species in large containers to avoid unnecessary trouble. In the summer they are taken out into the street, and they are taken to the house for the winter.

The shrub is propagated exclusively rooting cuttings, because in our latitudes the seeds almost never ripen.

Did you know? In Hawaii, hibiscus is called the "flower of beautiful women" and is considered a national culture.

Some subspecies of the Arnotti hibiscus are considered endangered. For example, immaculatus suffers from being eaten by wild animals. Its representatives in rare cases are found on 2-3 Malay Islands around the globe.

Hawaiian hibiscus (Hibiscus clayi)

Among Ukrainian flower growers, Hawaiian hibiscus is known as an indoor tree-like plant, and in warm countries it is used for outdoor gardening. The stems of the bush grow to a level of 30-50 cm. Leaves with a glossy surface, slightly oblong, slightly curved, resemble a dwarf ficus. Flowers consist of five red petals, folded into a long green cup.
The birthplace of culture is the forests on the Hawaiian island of Nunu. With the development of civilization in the wild, the species was practically not preserved. It is cut down, expanding resort areas, highways and cities, and in rural areas, animals for which it is just food cause irreparable damage.

Little is known about the Hawaiian hibiscus. In botanical encyclopedias, they are very succinctly stated common features species, without mentioning the history of occurrence, flowering cycles, longevity, the main requirements for full development and growth factors.

Flower growers in their reviews of culture mention the vital conditions for it:

• scattered light;
• temperature regime from 18 to 22 °С - in the hot season and from 16 to 18 °С - in the cold;
• soil and air moisture, which requires systematic watering and spraying;
• monthly one-time top dressing with nitrogen fertilizers;
• light soddy soil mixed with sand and humus, high-quality drainage.

Like all hibiscus varieties of the Hawaiian species suffer from spider mites, thrips, whiteflies and aphids. In the fight against them, the drug "Aktellik" is effective. They can process a flowerpot once a month for prevention.

Hibiscus splayed (Hibiscus divaricatus)

At its core, this type of hibiscus collected Australian varieties - analogues of the Chinese rose. Externally splayed hibiscus is evergreen shrub with spiny stems. It has a strong trunk with uneven bark, low-lying branches and large leaves, rounded up to 10 cm in diameter. The flowers are yellow with a crimson base. On the calyx, and then on the pod with grains, hard villi, similar to thorns, are noticeable.

Important! All indoor hibiscus every three years they need to be transplanted. Young specimens are best replanted annually.

Cultivated varieties reach a height of three meters, and on the native coasts and forest edges of Australia, where the splayed hibiscus comes from, it stretches over 5 m. Obviously, it got its name because of the awkward shape of the crown: the branches first depart from the trunk at a right angle, and then rush up.

Florists are attracted to a greater extent by exotic inflorescences. Each flower is about 10 cm in diameter and is pollinated by insects. But shrubs are rarely bred with seeds, preferring the method cuttings. special care require young seedlings, and mature plants are very patient.

Hibiscus diversifolius (Hibiscus diversifolius)

Its homeland is the Australian lands from Botany Bay in New South Wales and the Pacific Islands. Also found in Africa, Mauritius, Madagascar. In our latitudes it is cultivated as potted plant. Some lovers of room flora often confuse variegated and splayed hibiscus.
In addition to origin, they have much in common: stems of the same length, similar in appearance, large flowers with a long pistil, petiolate propagation method. The difference between the heterogeneous species is the leaves resembling the shape of a heart up to 10 cm in diameter, with uneven sections along the edges. There are many spines on the stems.

The variety of leaves of the species is explained by torn uneven serration and the presence of leaves of different sections on one stem. Near the tops, they can be solid, and going down, cut into 3 or 5 segments. On the inside, each leaf is densely covered with pile, which makes it rough.

The buds are pale yellow color with a rich purple center are collected in inflorescences that are directed downward. The cups are bright green with bristly hair.

In addition to warmth and sun, hibiscus of this species love water. In their native environment, they inhabit the banks of water bodies, wet fields and the outskirts of swamps. At home, they need frequent watering and pruning. A feature of diversifolius is its endurance to moderate winters.

Drummond's Hibiscus (Hibiscus drummondii)

It is a shrub up to 2 m tall with thin branches directed upwards. The leaves are trilobed, up to 5 cm long, with coarse teeth along the edges. Tubular flowers of 5 petals, scarlet and purple in color, which flows from more saturated in the center to delicate at the edges.
Name "sleepy hibiscus" due to the incomplete openness of the buds. They seemed to be preparing to bloom and froze in anticipation of a good moment. In diameter, variegated roses reach 11 cm.

On the Australian coasts, where the Drummond hibiscus comes from, the buds are filled with a slight pearly sheen. From afar, at the sight of a flowering shrub, it seems as if someone has painted purple corrugated paper with a mother-of-pearl brush and hung it on the green crown of the bush.

For regular lush flowering, the culture needs diffused light and moisture. In native shady areas in dry forest areas, hibiscus does not produce flowers, rushing branches higher and higher towards the sun. At the same time, the shrub grows very much, intertwining with other plants, forming a green wall.

Important! If a mature home or garden hibiscus is not blooming, it is worth reducing the amount of nitrogen fertilization, which provokes an increase in green biomass. Also, the reason may lie in the lack of water, light, or too high temperature during hibernation.

Hibiscus high (Hibiscus elatus)

The plant, which has spread throughout the world from Jamaica, is characterized by high decorativeness of flowers and quality wood. It is these two features that explain the parallel Caribbean name for high hibiscus - "blue maho", which stands for blue polish.
In its natural form, the culture is found in the southwestern part of India, cultivated evergreen trees adorn the streets in countries of warm latitudes. They are hard to miss even when the buds are not yet opened. The fact is that the straight trunks of these trees are very tall.

They develop skyward quickly and reach 25-30 meters. In temperate climates, the maximum height of hibiscus is within 7 meters, and in regions with high humidity and warm climates, the culture can be staggering in kilometer height.

The branched crown is rounded, with wide oval leaves up to 20 cm long. The trunk is powerful with fibrous bark. Tubular flowers of 5 petals amaze with their diversity: the buds are yellow, and as they open, their color flows into rich orange, then red. Roses reach a diameter of 12 cm, their edges are slightly folded towards the cup. In some varieties, yellow-crimson stripes on an orange body remain throughout the flowering.
At home, the culture is used to restore forests and is considered a valuable breed. Aesthetics, strength and excellent texture of high hibiscus wood are conducive to its use in the manufacture of furniture, picture frames and other interior decor items. And also it is indispensable in the manufacture of a musical instrument katros, something similar to a lute. The bast plants are used by Cubans in cigarette boxes.

Edible hibiscus, or okra (Hibiscus esculentus)

This beautiful species of hibiscus is known in English-speaking countries as lady's finger, which in translation means female fingers. It is also called okro and gombo. In the UK, USA and the Philippines - okra.

The geographical origin of the edible hibiscus species is not exactly known. Appropriating it to yourself, on this subject before today the botanists of South Asia and West Africa argue. The culture is widely grown throughout the world in tropical, subtropical and warm temperate latitudes, and is valued for the nutritional composition of young pods.

Did you know? In 1216, the Spaniards visited Egypt. They really enjoyed the treats of cooked green seed pods. Returning home, they talked about the unique culture that Africans grow. In 1658, okra appeared in Brazil, and in 1748 in distant Philadelphia. For the first time, they started talking about breeding new varieties of the species in 1806.

In our latitudes, the perennial is cultivated as an annual herbaceous plant. Externally, okra is a shrub up to two meters tall. Recently, breeders have proposed dwarf varieties no higher than 50 cm. Thick stems are densely branched, slightly pubescent.

In adulthood, the trunk becomes stiff. The leaves are huge, up to 20 cm long, with 5-7 lobes, covered with a weak pile, light shades of green. Medium-sized flowers - up to 8 cm, with 5 petals of white, yellow color with red, purple "eyes" at the base. The fruits are formed in the deciduous axils, shaped like a capsule up to 18 cm long with a pentagonal cross section. It contains round grains.

Young ovaries are used for food, which are no more than 3 days old. Old ones, brown in color, are considered unusable because of bad taste. Okra is eaten raw, fried, stewed, boiled, and is also suitable for freezing and home canning.

In the chemical composition of 100 g of okra, 7.45 g of carbohydrates, 0.19 g of fats, 1.9 g of proteins, 3.2 g of dietary fiber, 89.6 g of water were found. As well as vitamins: A - 5%, C - 28%, E - 2%, K - 30%, thiamine (B1) - 17%, riboflavin (B2) - 5%, niacin (B3) - 7%, folic acid(B9) - 15%, potassium - 8%, calcium - 6%, zinc - 6%, phosphorus - 9%, iron - 5%, magnesium - 16%.
During the cooking process, the edible hibiscus turns into a slimy mass. The plant in its original form is red and green. By palatability they are identical. During heat treatments, the red look turns green. The leaves are also usable. Oil squeezed from okra seeds is highly valued on the world market. They got the hang of using it not only for culinary and cosmetic purposes, but even as a fuel.

Soup and stews are prepared from unripe pods, while ripe specimens are roasted and the famous gombo coffee is prepared. The drink is allowed even for children, because it does not contain caffeine. In some countries, the species is cultivated exclusively for its fruits, which are high in a starchy substance called gombin.

It is processed into a powder that is widely used by local chefs as a thickener for soups and creams. In addition, cough preparations are made from the plant, to restore immunity and treat the digestive tract.

Fruit picking must be carried out with gloves, since the rigid fleecy structure of the stems provokes irritation of the skin.

Did you know? When the first fruit ripens on the okra, the development of other flowers and pods slows down. If the ovaries are regularly pinched off, they will form before the fruit appears.

In care, the culture is not demanding. He loves heat and sun, is considered the most heat-resistant of all mallows. It is cultivated even on clay dry soils. Drought okre is not terrible, unlike frost. It can endure short-term frosts up to 3 degrees, but will reduce growth rates.

A heat-loving plant is planted by seed in open ground only in warm countries. In our latitudes, gardeners practice planting hibiscus seedlings in greenhouses. After germination and strengthening of the sprouts, the seedlings are planted in pots and subsequently grown as a houseplant. In summer, the container is placed in the garden, protecting it from drafts and rains.

The plant is threatened powdery mildew, root-knot nematodes and verticillium wilt. For preventive purposes, the culture is periodically treated with pesticides.

Hibiscus fragile (Hibiscus fragilis)

A species of extremely rare endemic shrubs growing on the steep slopes of the mountains of Cordegardia, Le Morne Brabant in Mauritius. Outwardly, the fragile hibiscus looks like a Chinese rose.

Perennial is an evergreen very dense shrub with a widely branched crown. Leaves 5-7-segmented. The flowers are tubular, with 5 overlapping petals, in bright scarlet, terracotta and red hues. They are up to 10 cm in diameter.
Hibiscus fragile in the wild is disappearing. Today it is estimated at only four dozen copies and cannot independently recover to its former numbers. According to scientists, this is due to active competitive hybridization. Employees of the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew are trying to solve the problem by reproducing seedlings of the culture. Advances in cultivation raise hopes for the return of the species to the natural environment.

Hibiscus heterophyllus (Hibiscus heterophyllus)

The perennial plant is common in New South Wales and Queensland, Australia. It is a tall, fast growing shrub or tree with white, pale scarlet flowers and edible fruits.
In its native environment, hibiscus heterophylla prefers warm and humid conditions. The flowering period and the color of the petals depend on the habitat. For example, specimens in northern Queensland bloom brightly in June yellow roses, and those closer to the southern latitudes bloom with white buds in December.

In its native environment, an evergreen shrub grows up to 6 m, and in temperate zones its maximum height is up to 2 m. To maintain a neat appearance of a widely branched crown, the branches are cut periodically. The best period for this procedure, gardeners consider the phase after flowering. Then you need to pinch off the top by a third.

Vital to the development of hibiscus are diffused light, moisture and warmth. The plant can tolerate a temporary decrease in temperature, but this will be reflected in its flowering. Does not like northern winds and rains.

In a room, it is better to place a flowerpot away from direct sunlight, and in summer, when taken out into the garden, hide it in a protected penumbra. When grown outdoors, the best place for this specimen will be near a wall or fence.
Propagation of hibiscus diversifolia cuttings or seeds. Depending on the chosen method, stems will be formed. That is, if you root a cutting, in the long run you will get fibrous roots that contribute to abundant and long flowering. In cases with grains, the stem root will grow, and therefore, there will be few flowers and they will appear late.

Important! To propagate hibiscus by cuttings, at the end of winter, in a healthy specimen, the upper part of the branch is cut off at an angle through the knot and left for 6-8 weeks until the roots appear in a container of water. Then they are planted in a substrate of humus, peat and leafy soil.

Huegel's hibiscus (Hibiscus huegelii)

It is one of 35 Australian hibiscus. The sandy coasts of Western Australia are its native environment. Among its fellows, the plant stands out big flowers which vary greatly in color. In Europe it is called "lilac hibiscus". The name is caused rather by the color of the buds.

The official name of the species was in honor of Baron von Hugel. Scientists are still debating about the classification of the species. In the encyclopedic literature, hibiscus varieties huegelii leptochlamys (purple) and hibiscus huegelii wrayae (white), is no longer considered as a subspecies of cultivated varieties.
Outwardly, it is a tall, up to 4 meters, well-branched bush, with bright green fleecy leaves, divided into 3-5 segments. Their edges are serrated inner side pubescent, and on the outer veins are clearly visible. The buds consist of 5 petals, up to 7 cm long, the edges of which are on top of each other. Purple, lilac, blue, red, cream shades are more common.

By the end of the day, like all mallows, the flowers gain bright colors and fade, resembling paper in structure. In the wild, flowering lasts from June to January, and in a cultivated environment - until the temperature drops.

The plant is completely undemanding to the soil. Loves clay, sandy, well-lit, well-drained areas and moisture. Does not tolerate low temperatures. For supporting vitality needs sustenance. After flowering, the bush is trimmed to compact the crown. A feature of the species is sparse foliage on the lower branches and fast-growing young shoots that emanate close to the cuts.

Hibiscus kaili (Hibiscus kahilii)

Widespread on Australian coasts. In our latitudes, it is cultivated in open ground as an annual and as a potted plant.

Outwardly, it is a medium-sized bush with straight powerful stems, stretching up and in breadth up to 1-2 meters. The leaves are large, up to 8 cm long, covered with a light pile, bright green, with 3-5 segments.
Blooms from late May to September. The buds are tubular, solitary, with 5 petals, up to 10 cm in diameter. Their color is often scarlet, red, purple. It is characteristic that the flowers do not fully open, which is similar to Drummond's hibiscus.

Representatives of this species love the light, although they can develop in partial shade. Soil and air humidity, two-time top dressing (preferably in spring and summer) and timely pruning are also important.

Important! To propagate hibiscus by seed, ripe grains are first poured for a day warm water, after which they are sown in a container with a moist substrate and sent to a warm place until germination.

Variable hibiscus (Hibiscus mutabilis)

So the plant is called because of the property of flowers to change the color of the petals as they ripen. In addition, at home, in China, hibiscus was nicknamed "lotus tree" and in Buenos Aires "mad rose".

The culture is widely known on all continents in tropical, subtropical and temperate latitudes, cultivated as a street, garden decoration and pot plant. The Chinese believe in medicinal properties hibiscus, so for them it is not just a beautiful flower, but also a means to relieve pain.
In the wild, variegated hibiscus is an evergreen shrub, and in countries with cold winters, it is a padolist. It has powerful stems up to 3 m high. The crown is umbrella-shaped. The leaves are serrated, maple-shaped, deep green, with a slight hairiness. Their length reaches 25 cm.

Terry flowers, large sizes, unlike other types of hibiscus, do not fade on the day the bud opens. Moreover, they amaze the imagination with the color of the petals, which change three times during the flowering period. At first, the buds are creamy, on the second day the opened rose is white, tomorrow it will turn pale scarlet, and the day after tomorrow it will turn purple. The flowering period begins in July and lasts until September.

In room conditions, the flowerpot is best placed on the south and east sides, since it will die in the shade. In summer, it can be taken out into the garden, and in winter it can be kept at a reduced temperature (up to 15 ° C). Also, to the extent of reducing daylight hours, additional lighting will be needed. Pruning of representatives of this type of hibiscus is carried out every season, pinching off the apical points of growth. Heavily overgrown shrubs are cut without sparing - soon they will release arrows of new shoots.

The soil for the culture is chosen slightly acidic, it should be sufficiently moist and drained.

Hibiscus pandurovidny (Hibiscus panduriformis)

Hibiscus pandura is a an evergreen perennial shrub that is cultivated for its foliage for landscaping purposes. In its native environment, in Florida and Miami, its stems reach up to 1.5-2 m and grow in breadth by 60 cm. A feature of the species is the toxicity of all parts of the shrub. When in contact with the skin, they cause allergic reactions.
The plant loves partial shade and sunny areas, has an average need for water, tolerates temperatures in the range of 4.5-35 ° C, grows in acidic and semi-acidic soil, is used for growing in open ground and in containers. Reproduction of the species occurs exclusively by cuttings.

Did you know? It has been scientifically proven that regular intake of hibiscus tea helps lower blood pressure and normalizes blood cholesterol levels.

Hibiscus sabdariffa, or Rosella (Hibiscus sabdariffa)

It is its flowers that are widely used throughout the world for making hibiscus tea. The plant is cultivated as an edible. In food, not only the cups of flowers, but the leaves and stems are used. Preserves, jams, marmalade and even wine products are prepared from them, which surprise with a pleasant natural color. By the way, rosella is an excellent food coloring.
In some countries, the plant is called the Sudanese rose, although in fact it has nothing to do with Sudan. The native land for the shrub is India.

In temperate latitudes, the crop is grown as an annual. For hibiscus, well-drained, moist soil, a sunny site, moderate watering and systematic top dressing are important. The bush is very thermophilic, it develops quickly at + 20-30 ° C.

Scott's Hibiscus (Hibiscus scottii)

In its natural form, it grows in dense semi-deciduous forests of tropical and subtropical zones. It is rare because the species is classified as endangered. Today, Scott's hibiscus can only be found in Yemen.
Distinguished by yellow-orange flowers and bright terracotta spots at the base. Their calyx consists of two toothed segments. The leaves are oval, with large teeth along the edges, slightly bent.

Hibiscus sparkling (Hibiscus splendens)

Its native habitat is Australia. It is a dense shrub up to 2 m tall and wide. Stems are velvety. The leaves are heart-shaped, large, hairy and divided into asymmetrical serrated lobes, up to 20 cm long. Flowers solitary, 5-petalled, tubular, about 16 cm in diameter, in most cases purple and red.
When growing, it needs drained sandy soil, moderate moisture and periodic pruning. Often the procedure is organized immediately after flowering or in the spring before the juice begins to flow.

Important! If your hibiscus roots dry out, you should pay attention to the temperature regime. The flower does not tolerate cold soil.

Linden hibiscus (Hibiscus tiliaceus)

Deserves interest due to its healing and decorative properties. Since ancient times, decoctions have been prepared from the roots, petals and flowers of the lime-shaped hibiscus to treat respiratory diseases.

The Hawaiians used light and dense wood in shipbuilding, fishing gear was made from bast fibers, and cracks in the trays were sealed with bark. And now wood is used for woodcarving, making high-quality natural furniture and various decor items.
Modern scientists have confirmed the antioxidant qualities of the culture.

You can see the shrub in its natural habitat in the Maldives, the Virgin Islands, Eastern and Northern Australia, South and East Asia. Often these are beaches, swamps, coastal zones. The plant is immune to sea ​​salt, can grow in quartz and coral sand, limestone, crushed basalt. He is comfortable in slightly acidic soil.

The maximum height of the shrub is 10 m. The trunk grows in breadth by 15 cm. The branches are curved. The leaves are large, up to 30 cm long, strongly pubescent, heart-shaped, serrated. The flowers are bright yellow with a dark red base. During the day they change color to orange and red.

Hibiscus trifoliate (Hibiscus trionum)

In Southern Europe, where hibiscus trifoliate comes from, it is considered an annual weed of arable land. The culture grows up to 50 cm, dissolving white self-pollinating flowers with pigment coloring. Seed pods are pale green with purple mother-of-pearl tints, reminiscent of oriental lanterns. Stems are straight, hairy. The lower branches are longer than the upper ones, raised or drooping.

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The birthplace of the Hibiscus plant (Chinese rose) is presumably Asia Minor, but the flower grows in China, Korea, and India.

Under natural conditions, it is most often a shrub (sometimes three meters height!) with smooth gray branches.

Large flowers with the thinnest, almost transparent petals of a variety of colors of white-pink-red tones, from pale white to dark crimson, are hidden in a cool green crown.

And not so long ago, flowers appeared even with shades of blue - as they are called Florida hibiscus. The age of each flower is short, only one day. But every morning the miracle repeats itself: new flowers appear from the buds.

Kinds

By the number of species, varieties and varieties, hibiscus is one of the most diverse ornamental plants: the genus Hibiscus has from 250 to 300 representatives. Hibiscus are evergreen and deciduous, trees and shrubs, perennial and annual herbs.

According to the form of growth, the following types of Chinese rose can be distinguished: woody, shrubby and herbaceous. Tree-like ones include, for example, a Syrian rose grown in the form of a tree. The same plant can be a shrub as tall as a person.

Herbaceous species include varieties of hybrid hibiscus, as well as marsh hibiscus. Herbaceous forms are annual. Their peculiarity is the death of above-ground shoots in the fall, so that in spring new strong shoots grow from the buds at the bottom of the stem and on the root. But, of course, perennial hibiscus are more attractive.

In the form of flowers distinguish varieties simple and terry (multilayered). The layering property is unstable: under adverse conditions, flowers quickly degenerate into a simple form.

To try to deal with the variety of varieties, we distinguish three varieties of Chinese rose:

1. Hibiscus at home (original).
2. Hibiscus that can be grown outdoors even in temperate zone(frost-resistant).
3. indoor hibiscus.

primordial

Syrian

The progenitor of most hibiscus is Syrian hibiscus (Hibiscus syriacus) - a deciduous shrub that grows to an impressive size. under 3 meters. Delicate white flowers, as befits mallows, have a white pistil in the middle - "cob".

Petals can be almost any "flower" shade: white and pink, blue and dark red, with specks and patterns along the edge. Terry hibiscus have a special charm, but simple ones are also good. If care is taken to cover the plant in winter, this species, with some restrictions and precautions, can be grown in our temperate zone.

How the Syrian Hibiscus flower looks like, see the photo:

Sudanese rose

Sudanese rose, sabdariffa (Hibiscus sabdariffa) is a shrub native to India, cultivated in the tropics of Africa and Asia. We are more familiar with this name. hibiscus- flower tea Cultivated as a food crop. Thus Hibiscus and Hibiscus are one and the same.

Edible cups are used for For drinks, jams, juices, sauces, jellies, wines, pies and as a red dye.

Unlike the Syrian rose, the Sudanese rose does not tolerate frost; in the northern latitudes it has to be re-grown from seed every year.

Photo of the subspecies Hibiscus hibiscus or Sudanese rose:

frost-resistant

For open ground in temperate latitudes, special types of garden hibiscus have been bred: Syrian, trifoliate, maple-leaved and others.

Syrian

Sometimes it is called "garden", in temperate latitudes requires painstaking care. In the southern regions, it is found everywhere. It is easy to give its crown an arbitrary shape: a cube, a ball, a cone ... - which is widely used by gardeners.

Trifoliate, or northern

A modest inconspicuous plant with pale pink or pale yellow flowers, up to 80 cm high. Named for the shape of the leaves - with three lobes. After flowering, a ball-shaped fruit forms on its pedicel - hence the other name for this hibiscus is “swollen”.

In horticulture unpretentious, but loves brightly lit sunny places and loose nutrient soil. Possesses wound healing property, for this crumpled petals must be applied to the wound.

Photo subspecies Hibiscus trifoliate:

Maple Leaf Mahogany

They are called so because of the shape of the leaves: they look like Japanese maple leaves. Another name for it is sour hibiscus. It grows in the form of a dense tall bush with reddish leaves, from pale red to maroon. Large flowers (5-10 cm across) are wine red or pink with a lilac center.

This hibisus is called sour for the taste of young leaves, sour-tart, similar to sorrel. In the Congo and Cameroon, the plant is grown as a vegetable crop, in local markets its long shoots are sold in bunches, like our onions. In temperate climates, it survives only as an annual and must be re-grown from seed each year.

Hybrid

More practical in our latitudes is hybrid hibiscus (Hibiscus hybrida), or herbaceous - it is obtained by crosses of three types from North America: red hibiscus, marsh hibiscus and holly hibiscus.

The last two species are frost-resistant, so hybrids are able to withstand frosts up to 30 degrees. By crossing, flowers of various shades were obtained, from white to crimson, and very large sizes, up to 25 cm in diameter.

Photo subspecies Hibiscus hybrid:

Bolotny

Perennial herbaceous plant, up to 120 cm high, blooming with pink, bright red or terracotta flowers. In cold regions the above-ground part dies off for the winter, only buds remain in the ground, so the plant does not require shelter for the winter.

Native to North America, from swamps in the Mississippi River basin. Therefore, for its planting, it is better to choose sunny places without blackouts with moist, almost marshy soil.

One of the varieties of marsh hibiscus is the frost-resistant perennial hibiscus Kopper King - a compact rounded bush with pale lilac flowers of impressive (up to 30 cm!) Sizes that bloom for a long season. Can be used singly and in group plantings, as well as to create hedges.

Photo subspecies Kopper King:

Musky

Hibiscus musky, a voluminous bush with a height of up to 150 cm with pinkish stems, large dark green heart-shaped leaves and bright burgundy large flowers.

Photo subspecies Musk Hibiscus:

Angel wings

For those who do not have a garden, but have a greenhouse or a piece of land in front of the house, the “angel wings” variety has been created - a miniature rose bush that blooms very profusely. A small (up to 30 cm) plant blooms with white-pink double and non-double flowers 4-9 cm, which can be on one plant. up to a hundred pieces simultaneously!

Indoor

Until recently, "indoor" was the only variety of homemade hibiscus with bright red double flowers, jokingly called "grandmother's" flower. He wandered from house to house, from generation to generation - after all, the plant lives for at least 20 years! Now the palette of houseplant hibiscus is almost inexhaustible!

schizopetalus

Flowers of exquisite form are distinguished by hibiscus schizopetalus - or dissected-petal, a guest from the Brazilian forests. Its flowers, which the local Indians call "earrings of the chief's daughter", really look like expensive jewelry.

Its calyx has the form of a tube with strongly dissected red-orange petals, bent back. The pestle, strongly protruding forward, makes the flower look like a bird of paradise. In summer, the plant can be kept outside, but for the winter it is better to bring it into heat.

Photo subspecies Hibiscus schizopetalus:

Mix

Hibiscus mix - evergreen shrub, indoors it is from 0.7 to 1.2 m, sometimes with variegated leaves. Large flowers of various shapes (simple or double) can be of any color, from white to dark red. In summer, the flower will be more comfortable in the air, in the garden, you just need to make sure that it does not stand in the wind and is protected from direct sun.

Photo subspecies Hibiscus mix:

King

Hibiscus with bright yellow double flowers up to 17 cm is very likely to be a hibiscus variety "King" (Koenig)- Hibiscus "Koenig". Homeland indoor flower Hibiscus King - Southeast Asia. The plant is photophilous, but like all hibiscus, does not like to stand in the sun. This variety is quite fastidious, at improper care drops buds.

Photo subspecies Hibiscus king:

Cooper

The variegated hibiscus (or Cooper's hibiscus, named after the scientist who brought it to Europe) is somewhat different from ordinary hibiscus. The main beauty of this plant is its leaves: they combine red, white and green.

Color depends on light, temperature, humidity: in the bright sun, the leaves become unpredictably variegated, fade in the shade ... Flowers, pink or red, common for hibiscus. This variety is disease resistant and hardy.

Photo subspecies Hibiscus Cooper:

Curious. Hibiscus is often mistakenly referred to as eustoma - Lisianthus. This is a plant of a different species, although one of its names is Japanese (or Irish) rose.

Okra

You can surprise your guests edible kind hibiscus- okra. It is an annual herbaceous plant up to 2 m in height. From beautiful yellow flowers, long finger-shaped pods from 6 to 30 cm long appear, from which you can make salads, boil, stew, fry, and also freeze and preserve.

Phot subspecies Okra:

Kenaf

Hemp hibiscus, or Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus), is equally unusual, it is bred in many tropical countries for the sake of unique spinning fiber.

Photo of the subspecies Hemp Hibiscus:

Useful video

For more information about the variety of varietal Hibiscus, see the video:

Conclusion

At home, almost all hibiscus require relatively easy care- and in gratitude they delight the owners with lush bright flowers. Surely, among this endless variety of exotic flowers, yours exists!