Sea Hibiscus
Hibiscus tiliaceus
None
About this plant
Hibiscus tiliaceus, commonly known as Sea Hibiscus, is a fast-growing shrub or small tree with large, heart-shaped leaves and bright yellow flowers that often have a red center. It is valued for its attractive flowers and ability to tolerate coastal conditions. The plant is often used for landscaping in tropical and subtropical areas and can help stabilize sandy soils near beaches.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Hibiscus
- Family
- Malvaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Malvales
- Plant type
- Shrub
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Tropical Asia, Pacific Islands
- Distribution
- Widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical coastal regions worldwide, including parts of Asia, the Pacific Islands, Africa, and the Americas.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 3–7 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- 10 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 20–30 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 10–12
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Soil type
- well-draining loam or sandy soil
Watering. Water regularly during the growing season to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering in cooler months. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Fertilizing. Feed Hibiscus tiliaceus with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and summer to support growth and flowering. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of flowers.
Hibiscus tiliaceus is a hardy plant that grows quickly in warm climates. It prefers full sun and well-draining soil. It can tolerate some drought but grows best with regular watering. Watch for overwatering, which can cause root problems. Pruning helps maintain its shape and encourages flowering.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Seeds, Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring–summer
Large heart-shaped leaves and bright yellow flowers with a red center that attract pollinators. The plant has a bushy form and can be shaped as a small tree or shrub.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Mildly toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Mildly toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Generally non-toxic but sap may cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Keep away from pets if they tend to chew plants.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Low
Hibiscus tiliaceus may cause mild skin irritation in some people who are sensitive to its sap. The plant's pollen is not a common allergy trigger. To reduce exposure, avoid direct contact with the sap and wash hands after handling the plant.
Common problems
Common problems include leaf yellowing from overwatering, leaf spots from fungal infections in humid conditions, and occasional pest issues like aphids or scale insects.
Uses
Used as an ornamental plant for gardens and coastal landscaping. Also used for soil stabilization and traditional crafts in some cultures.
Notes
Prune after flowering to shape the plant and remove dead wood. It can be grown indoors in bright light but prefers outdoor conditions. Protect from frost and cold drafts.