Hibiscus rosa-sinensis 'Aurora' (Hibiscus Aurora)

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, commonly known as Chinese Hibiscus, Tropical Hibiscus, or Chinese Rose, is an evergreen shrub or small tree in the Malvaceae family. Its exact wild origin is uncertain, and the species is considered an ancient cultivated plant, probably derived from tropical Asian ancestors and spread throughout the tropics centuries ago. Plants typically grow 6-10 feet (1.8-3 m) tall, occasionally larger, with glossy, toothed green leaves and a dense, branching habit. The large, showy flowers may be single, semi-double, or double and occur in an enormous range of colors, including red, pink, orange, yellow, white, and numerous multicolored combinations.

In warm climates, Hibiscus rosa-sinensis can flower almost continuously throughout the year, with individual blooms usually lasting only a day or two but being produced in rapid succession. It grows best in full sun to partial shade and fertile, well-drained soil with regular moisture and feeding during active growth. Pruning encourages branching and helps maintain a compact, floriferous plant. Hardy in USDA Zones 9-11, it may suffer significant dieback during freezes in Zone 9 and benefits from a sheltered location and cold protection. In cooler climates, Tropical Hibiscus is one of the most popular flowering houseplants and container plants, valued for bringing its spectacular tropical blooms indoors. Thousands of cultivars and complex hybrids have been developed, making it one of the most diverse and widely grown flowering shrubs in tropical and subtropical gardens as well as a favorite indoor ornamental.

Read more about hibiscus:
Hibiscus growing tips: The Tips of Hibiscus Flowers
Most useful Hibiscus plants
Hibiscus: TopTropicals' first plant
Catalog of Fancy Hibiscus varieties
Hibiscus Varieties Gallery

Hibiscus Aurora is widely used as an ornamental in parks and gardens around the world. It is a large shrub that grows 5 to 10 feet tall and can also be grown as a small shrub between 2 to 5 feet tall, depending on the size of the container and the climate where it is grown. It has bright, red, crimson and vinous flowers that bloom throughout the summer.

Hibiscus Aurora prefers to be placed in a sunny location and does best when grown in full sun, but will tolerate semi-shade as long as there is sufficient sunlight for proper flowering. Hibiscus Aurora enjoys regular watering and a moderate amount of fertility. Mulching around the base of the plant is a great way to help keep the soil moist and cool during hot summer days.

When grown in areas with cold winters, Hibiscus Aurora should be planted in a pot and brought indoors to stay warm and dry throughout the cold season. It needs plenty of sunlight and fertilizer to stay healthy during the winter months and will shed leaves when inside. The pot should be placed near a sunny window, watered regularly and kept in a well-drained potting soil.

Hibiscus Aurora is hardy in USDA Zones 9-11 and can be grown in slightly colder climates with proper care. Its bright attractive flowers will be a stunning addition to any landscape or garden, and its vining habit makes an excellent cover for trellises and arbors.