Hibiscus hamabo

Hamabo Hibiscus is an evergreen small multirunked tree or large shrub native to Asia in the marshmallow family.   It grows at a medium rate up to 15 feet tall and wide.  It has showy pale yellow flowers that lhand downward ast from mid-spring through the first frost.  It is more cold tolerant than other hibiscus, like Hibiscus rosa-sinensis and are drought tolerant once established.  It is evergreen in warm climates and has attractive yellow to red leaves in the fall in cooler climates.   Prune to maintain a dense habit as the branches can become long and pendulous.

Plant in full sun to partial shade in acidic to neutral high organic matter soil.  Propagate by seed or semi-hardwood stem cuttings.  This plant is frequently browsed by deer.  

Its small stature works as flowering tree for a courtyard or patio gardens.  Its showy flowers bring light and interest to a cottage garden.  Plant Hamabo hibiscus in small groups in the middle or back of a border planting, or use as a hedge or screen.  Their salt tolerance makes them a good choice for a coastal location.  In cooler climates they do well planted in large containers where they can be brought inside over the winter.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  No serious problems.

VIDEO Created by Elizabeth Meyer for "Trees, Shrubs and Conifers" a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.