Hibiscus Shrubs

Hibiscus is a broad genus in the mallow family that includes annual and perennial herbs, shrubs, and trees. Its species often have large, showy flowers, but their sizes, growing habits, seasons, and climate needs differ widely. ## About the Genus Kew describes Hibiscus as a pantropical genus with some species extending into temperate regions. Across the genus, plants range from low, spreading shrubs to upright tree forms, and flower color varies among species. ## Garden Use Hibiscus species are used as informal hedges, screens, foundation plants, specimens, and backgrounds in mixed plantings. Choose a species or named selection before planning mature spacing or deciding whether a plant can stay outdoors in winter; tropical shrubs and hardy herbaceous species have different needs. ## Growing Conditions There is no single sun, water, soil, or USDA hardiness recommendation that fits every Hibiscus. Match those details to the identified species and local climate, and provide the spacing required by its mature form. ## Maintenance Pruning and winter care depend on whether the plant is a woody shrub or a herbaceous perennial. Use care guidance for the exact species or cultivar rather than applying one routine across the genus. [Kew Plants of the World Online: Hibiscus](https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:328182-2/general-information) · [UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions: Hibiscus](https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/ornamentals/hibiscus/)