Hibiscus rosa-sinensis 'Florida Sunset' (Hibiscus Florida Sunset)
Botanical name: Hibiscus rosa-sinensis
Common name: Hibiscus Florida Sunset
Cultivar: Florida Sunset
Family: Malvaceae
USDA Zone: 9-11








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
Ideal for planting a small divine garden, Hibiscus Florida Sunset is a delight for any garden. Enjoy its gorgeous red, crimson, and vinous flowers that bloom throughout the season. Also, you may find its yellow and orange flowers in warmer areas. This fast-growing shrub can reach up to five to ten feet in height, but with regular care and pruning you can keep it under five feet. To thrive, Hibiscus Florida Sunset needs full sun or semi-shade, as well as regular water. Firstly, it should be watered deeply and consistently after planting. Secondly, keep your Hibiscus Florida Sunset moist to enable the roots to access essential nutrients.
In cold regions, those looking to grow Hibiscus Florida Sunset in a pot should move it indoors during the winter and select a container with drainage holes and a generous space for the plant to spread. The potting soil should be light, moist, and rich in organic matter for the best results. Make sure the pot does not sit in standing water. Water generously during the warm, growing season and reduce the amount through the winter months. Don't forget to give your Hibiscus Florida Sunset his regular dose of fertilizer during the growing season. For the best flowering, prune the shrub lightly, cutting the shoots back by half to two-thirds of their length in late spring.
Related cultivars: Hibiscus rosa-sinensis 'Florida Sunset' (Hibiscus Florida Sunset)
- Hibiscus rosa-sinensis ''Apricot Brandy'' (Apricot Brandy Hibiscus )
- Hibiscus rosa-sinensis ''Aurora'' (Hibiscus Aurora)
- Hibiscus rosa-sinensis ''Celia'' (Double red hibiscus)
- Hibiscus rosa-sinensis ''Country Music'' (Hibiscus Country Music)
- Hibiscus rosa-sinensis ''Dark Star'' (Hibiscus Dark Star - Double Pink)
- Hibiscus rosa-sinensis ''Fiesta'' (Hibiscus Fiesta)
- Hibiscus rosa-sinensis ''Jane Cowel'' (Hibiscus Jane Cowel Double peach)
- Hibiscus rosa-sinensis ''Kinchens'' (Hibiscus Kinchens Yellow)
- Hibiscus rosa-sinensis ''Kona'' (Hibiscus Double Kona)
- Hibiscus rosa-sinensis ''Kristen Coveny'' (Hibiscus Kristen Coveny)
Similar plants: Hibiscus rosa-sinensis 'Florida Sunset' (Hibiscus Florida Sunset)
- Abelmoschus esculentus (Okra)
- Abelmoschus moschatus (Musk Mallow)
- Alyogyne hakeifolia (Red-centred Hibiscus)
- Alyogyne huegelii (Blue Hibiscus)
- Hibiscus acetosella (African Rosemallow)
- Hibiscus arnottianus (Hawaiian White Hibiscus)
- Hibiscus cannabinus (Kenaf)
- Hibiscus coccineus (Scarlet Hibiscus)
- Hibiscus El Capitolio Group ''Bloody Mary'' (Bloody Mary Hibiscus)
- Hibiscus El Capitolio Group ''Tequila Sunrise'' (Tequila Sunrise Hibiscus)






