Species Russian hibiscus
white flower with intricate patterns and  creamy-golden stamens; serrated hairy green leaves

Russian hibiscus

Kitaibelia vitifolia

Russian hibiscus (Kitaibelia vitifolia) is a deciduous shrub native to Central and Eastern Europe. This hardy and attractive plant features bright, daisy-like, yellow flowers with seven orange-striped petals. It blooms from late spring to the end of summer and its foliage offers a unique bronze-purple fall color. Russian hibiscus grows to an average height of 3-4 feet, with a fast and spreading habit that requires occasional pruning. Its best kept in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soils; it also needs plenty of space for its spreading habit and air circulation. It makes an excellent ornamental addition to gardens and is considered a low-maintenance shrub.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Cutting,Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

5 - 8

Flowers:

White to light pink Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

watering

Russian Hibiscus (Kitaibelia vitifolia) should be watered deeply but not too frequently. During the growing season, water once a week, ensuring the soil becomes thoroughly moist. In the winter months, reduce watering to approximately once a month. Water first thing in the morning or in the evening when temperatures are cooler to ensure the water can be absorbed by the plant before evaporating. But make sure not to let the soil dry out completely. Too much water can cause root rot, so allow the top 2-3 inches of soil to dry out before watering again.

sunlight

Russian hibiscus (Kitaibelia vitifolia) prefers sunny locations and should receive at least 6 hours of full sunlight daily. It grows best in moist soils with temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. An ideal location for these plants would be in an area with morning sun, followed by light shade in the afternoon. During the winter months, when the amount of sunlight is shorter, Russian hibiscus can survive with only a few hours of sunlight.

pruning

Pruning is essential for a healthy Russian hibiscus (Kitaibelia vitifolia). Pruning should take place twice a year, once in early spring and once in late summer. The timing of pruning is important to ensure the proper growth of the plant. In early spring, the Russian hibiscus should be pruned when it is actively growing. This encourages new and healthy growth, and encourages branching. Remove dead flowers and dead woody stems. When pruning in early spring, only remove approximately 1/4 of the total number of branches. In late summer, the Russian Hibiscus should also be pruned to encourage a bushier growth and better blooming. Prune lightly but often, as the Russian hibiscus naturally grows vigorously during the summer months. This helps ensure an even distribution of nutrients throughout the plant and stimulates blooming for the upcoming season. Prune just enough so the plant retains its shape. By cutting away old flowers, removing any dead or wilted foliage, and pruning lightly throughout the year, a Russian hibiscus will remain healthy and attractive.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Kitaibelia vitifolia, also known as Russian hibiscus, typically starts flowering in June.

Hardiness Map