Species hibiscus Guide
purple flowers with green sepals, green, upright stems and green leaves

hibiscus

Hibiscus 'Midnight Marvel'

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Stem Propagation,Air Layering Propagation,Division,Grafting Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

5 - 9

Flowers:

Carmine-red Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

purple,black

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Low

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Hibiscus 'Midnight Marvel' should be watered thoroughly once or twice a week, depending on the season, the plant’s environment, and soil drainage. During the spring and summer season, water the plant deeply, allowing the soil to become completely saturated. In the cooler months, it is okay to cut back on the watering frequency, but the plant should not completely dry out. To check if the Hibiscus needs water, stick your finger into the soil up to the first knuckle and feel; if it is dry, it's time to water.

sunlight

Hibiscus 'Midnight Marvel' is a heat-loving, annual plant that needs full sun for healthy growth and blooming. This plant should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Avoid placing it in shaded areas with little to no direct sunlight, as this can cause the plant to become leggy, afflicted with disease, and produce fewer flowers.

pruning

The Hibiscus 'Midnight Marvel' is a fast grower and should be pruned regularly to keep it looking its best. Pruning should take place in early summer, after the first flush of flowers has faded. This species of Hibiscus benefits from being pruned hard annually. This will encourage bushier growth and more flowers. Remove 1-third of the stems back to the base and thin out any crowded shoots, leaving only strong branches. After pruning, a granular fertilizer should be applied around the base of the plant.

FAQ

Are Hibiscus flowers sensitive to touch?

Yes, Hibiscus flowers are sensitive to touch. Their delicate petals are easily disturbed and can bruise or tear if touched too roughly. They respond best to gentle handling when it involves being moved to a new location or during care, such as watering and pruning. When handling a Hibiscus, it’s best to use caution and to treat the flower with respect to prevent bruising or breakage.

Should Hibiscus plants be grown indoors or outdoors?

Hibiscus plants can be grown both indoors and outdoors. If grown indoors, they will need bright, indirect light and a warm, humid environment. Make sure they get plenty of sunlight and water, as they are tropical plants and tend to have higher humidity and water needs. When grown outdoors, make sure they are planted in a spot that has plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil. They need a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight each day and regular watering for best performance.

Could Hibiscus be propagated by stem cuttings?

Yes, hibiscus can be propagated by stem cuttings. To propagate by stem cuttings, take a cutting from a healthy stem that's at least 6 inches long and has 3-4 healthy leaves. Dip the stem cutting in rooting hormone to encourage better rooting and then insert it into a pot filled with moist soil. Keep the newly planted cutting consistently moist to encourage root growth and within a few weeks, new growth should appear!

Could Hibiscus be propagated by stem cuttings?

Yes, Hibiscus can be propagated by stem cuttings. Beginning in the summer, take 8-10 inch long cuttings from the ends of a healthy Hibiscus plant. Make sure your cuttings come from non-flowering stems and cut just below a node, which is a point where the leaf bud connects with the stem. Place your cuttings in a shallow container filled with water and place them in a sunny spot. Change the water in the container every other day and in a few weeks, roots should form. Once you notice small yellow leaves appearing at the top of the stalks, you can transfer the cutting to well-draining soil. With proper care and maintenance, your Hibiscus propagated using stem cuttings will soon begin to flower.

Do Hibiscus flowers have a short blooming period?

Yes, hibiscus flowers have a short blooming period. Generally, hibiscus flowers only last for about one day, depending on the climate and care for the plant. To ensure long-lasting color and fragrance, it is best to keep the flower in a warm and sunny spot, water it regularly, and deadhead it to encourage continuous blooms. Proper care and pruning techniques help hibiscus plants to bloom up to 7 or 8 months each year in some climates.