Different Types of Hibiscus

Question

Are there different types of Hibiscus? Will all hibiscus survive through winter?

Answer 1

Yes, there are many different types of Hibiscus. Tropicals, found in many garden centers, will only survive in the warm climates of Zone 9 and higher. They need to be brought into the house to survive in a colder zone. Hardy hibiscus, sold as hardy hibiscus, will survive to Zone 4 but I would recommend winter protection of a covering of mulch. They are very late to emerge in the Spring and should be marked with a label so they are now mistakenly dug and thrown away. Add to this all the natives and hybreds and there is a broad spectrum of hibiscus available with survival dependent on where you live. Check zones while researching. Harder hybiscus are awesome plants that produce very large flowers and are currently the rage. Many new hybreds are available – search Hardy Hibiscus Fireball or Cranberry Crush. Rose of Sharon is also classified as a hibiscus and is grown as a speciman or is great for a living hedge in warmer climates. If a hibiscus is yellow or orange, it is tropical. Just an afterthought.