A tropical hibiscus with large, bright yellow flowers against glossy dark leaves. It blooms through the warm months, heaviest in spring, and suits tropical-themed pool and patio areas where it gets regular water and some afternoon shade.
Living with it in the Phoenix Valley
Watering
Follow the shrub schedule in our Landscape Care guide, knowing this shrub needs more water than most. Keep the soil evenly moist but well drained; a plant sitting in wet soil can develop root rot.
Pruning
Shape it lightly to hard in late winter or spring, after the last frost. Cut back frost-damaged stems then, not in the middle of winter.
Heat and sun
Summer heat and western exposure scorch leaves and stall flowering. Morning sun and afternoon shade keep it looking its best.
Feeding and pests
Feed regularly while it is growing, with chelated micronutrients if leaves yellow between the veins. Check for aphids, whiteflies and mealybugs on new growth.
How our designers use it
Bright accent
Our designers use yellow hibiscus as a single bold note in a tropical planting, often beside blue or purple flowers.
Pots by the patio
Containers keep it near seating and let you move it under cover on frost nights.
Good to know
Around the pool
No thorns. Each flower lasts a day, then drops, so there is a little daily litter if it sits beside the water.
Frost
Plan for some winter damage. Cover it on frost nights, and expect it to regrow in spring.
