Overview
Hibiscus rubis is a bushy shrubs in the genus Hibiscus, part of the Malvaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Hibiscus rubis grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include shrub borders, specimen planting and hedging.
About
Hibiscus rubis is a deciduous shrub cultivar within the Hibiscus genus, known for its bushy habit. Like other members of this genus, it produces large, funnel-shaped blooms over an extended flowering period. It thrives best in full sun, ideally in a south-facing, sheltered position with moist but well-drained neutral loam soil. Hardy to UK zone H5, it is suitable for shrub borders, specimen planting, or hedging. Planting is recommended after the last frost in fertile soil, and propagation is typically done by semi-hardwood cuttings. This cultivar is notable for its winter season interest.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Hibiscus
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Hibiscus rubis size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Shrubs
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Shrub borders, specimen planting, hedging
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Hibiscus rubis
- Propagation
- Semi-hardwood cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Aphids, scale insects, mealybugs, glasshouse whitefly
- Disease resistance
- Honey fungus, powdery mildews
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Hibiscus rubis?
Hibiscus rubis prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Hibiscus rubis need?
Hibiscus rubis grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Hibiscus rubis hardy in the UK?
Hibiscus rubis has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Hibiscus rubis?
Semi-hardwood cuttings.
More in the Hibiscus genus
- Hibiscus 'Copenhagen'
- Hibiscus 'Mahogany Splendor'
- Hibiscus acetosella 'Haight Ashbury'
- Hibiscus acetosella 'Red Shield'
- Hibiscus arnottianus
- Hibiscus calyphyllusRock's hibiscus
- Hibiscus clayi
- Hibiscus coccineusAmerican scarlet rose mallow
