Variegated Red Hibiscus
Hibiscus rosa-sinensis 'Snow Queen' / 'Rose Flake'
An evergreen tropical shrub known for its striking foliage variegated with shades of deep red, burgundy, pink, green, and bronze, as well as showy bright pink to red blooms.
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade; prefers at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best color vibrancy.
- Water
- Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Allow top inch of soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid completely dry soil.
- Growth
- Upright, multi-stemmed perennial tropical shrub growing 4-8 feet tall and 3-5 feet wide.
Care instructions
Provide full sun to bright indirect light to maintain vibrant leaf color. Keep soil consistently moist but well-drained. Feed regularly during the active growing season with a balanced fertilizer high in potassium.
Growing details
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; prefers at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best color vibrancy.
Watering
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Allow top inch of soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid completely dry soil.
Soil
Rich, fertile, organic-rich soil that is well-draining with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0 to 7.0).
Hardiness zone
USDA Zones 9 to 11; protect from freezing temperatures.
Growth habit
Upright, multi-stemmed perennial tropical shrub growing 4-8 feet tall and 3-5 feet wide.
Bloom season
Blooms continuously from late spring through autumn in warm climates, featuring prominent single red or bright pink flowers with a extended stamen column.
Propagation
Propagated via softwood or semi-hardwood stem cuttings taken in spring or summer, typically using rooting hormone in a warm environment.
Common pests & issues
Susceptible to aphids, spider mites, mealybugs, and whiteflies. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while low light causes loss of leaf variegation.
Similar species
Acalypha wilkesiana (Copperleaf) shares similar foliage coloration, but Hibiscus features coarse serrated margins and characteristic mallow family flowers.