41 Different Types of Hibiscus Varieties For Your Garden

Planting hibiscus in your garden can be a challenge if you don't know what type of hibiscus to plant! There are many different varieties, with different colored flowers that can grow across many different hardiness zones. In this article, we examine our favorite types of hibiscus varieties for your home or garden space!

hibiscus varieties

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Hibiscus flowers are beautiful and tropical-looking flowers. The blossoms are showstoppers with their elegant shape and vivid colors. There are hundreds of different hibiscus species, which can be grown as annuals, or perennials depending on your hardiness zone.

So which hibiscus should you chose to plant in your garden? How do you decide? Do you stick to color alone? Or are you looking for something that will keep coming back after your winter frost? Maybe something you just want to plant for a single season?

We’ve hand picked over 40 of our favorite types of hibiscus for your garden, across many different climates. While this flowering shrub belongs to the mallow family that prefers tropical climates, their hardiness will allow them to adapt to many climates. Let’s take a look at some of our favorite hibiscus types, with names and pictures of each!

Anne Arundel

Hibiscus moscheutos
‘Anne Arundel’ is also referred to as the rose mallow hibiscus.
Scientific name: Hibiscus moscheutos
  • Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
  • Geographic Origin: North America
  • Plant Size: 4-5 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun
  • Plant Zone: 5-9

Anne Arundel hibiscus, also sometimes called the rose mallow hibiscus, is a beautiful bright pink blossom that can grow several feet high and take up considerable space in your garden. This variety loves some sun, so make sure it’s in a spot where the sun reaches for most of the day, especially the morning sun.

It does best in rich, moist soil but can be tolerant of less-than-ideal soil. The blossom has a dramatic appearance with large, flopping petals that are soft and delicate.

Ardens

Hibiscus syriacus
The Ardens variety is often confused with other types of flowers with their unique looks.
Scientific name: Hibiscus syriacus
  • Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
  • Geographic Origin: Asia
  • Plant Size: 5-8 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun, partial shade
  • Plant Zone: 5-8

The Ardens variety of hibiscus is often confused with carnations and other herbaceous perennials. But they are a unique variety of hibiscus that has separated petals that are a soft shade of purple, close to lavender or lilac.

They have a fluffy appearance with ruffled edges and layered petals. The flowers grow off of large, wide bushes, creating pops of purple amongst a sea of green. They’ll grow successfully in almost any soil and can be fairly resilient as long as they get enough sunlight.

Black Rainbow

Black Rainbow Hibiscus
Black Rainbow produces flowers that are 6-8 inches wide with colors that change throughout the day.
Image courtesy of @plantladylils
Scientific name: Hibiscus rosa sinensis
  • Plant Type: Perennial shrub
  • Geographic Origin: Asia
  • Plant Size: 4-5 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun, partial shade
  • Plant Zone: 4-9

One of the most unique hibiscus out there is the Black Rainbow. Hibiscus with black petals is very hard to find, and also very beautiful. Most black hibiscus grow in tropical regions where they can get the warm humid environment that they thrive in. Though, these same conditions can be mimicked in a greenhouse if you prefer.

Black Rainbow is a rare hybrid color for hibiscus, which are typically brightly colored in yellow, pink, red, orange, etc. The 6-8 inch flower is easily visible as it contrasts against the green foliage of the shrub.

Blue Bird

Hibiscus syriacus Blue Bird
“Blue Bird” prefers bright diffused light, without direct sunlight in spring and summer.
Scientific name: Hibiscus syriacus
  • Plant Type: Deciduous shrub
  • Geographic Origin: Asia
  • Plant Size: 6-8 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun, partial sun
  • Plant Zone: 4-9

The Bluebird hibiscus variety is a large blossom with an array of blue shades, making it one of the most stunning flowers. Many people see the blossom as a shade of purple rather than blue, but this is debatable.

The edges of the petals are usually a deeper shade, and the petals have a sort of ombre effect, lightning toward the middle. But the center is darker than the rest of the flower, creating an eye in the center. This hibiscus shrub has a vase shape that is ideal for lining walkways or the back of your garden.

Blue Chiffon

Blue Chiffon
Blue Chiffon should be watered regularly, preventing the soil from drying out.
Scientific name: Hibiscus syriacus
  • Plant Type: Deciduous shrub
  • Geographic Origin: Asia
  • Plant Size: 8-12 feet high
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun
  • Plant Zone: 5-9

The Blue chiffon hibiscus flower is a delicate and dainty flower that has thin petals and a soft blue color. It often reminds people of baby nurseries, fostering that sense of calm in the light blue shade. The periwinkle blossoms feature several layers of flowers that scrunch together for a textured appearance.

The first layer is broad petals, and the layers slowly narrow into thin petals. They don’t need much water or rich soil and thrive in full sunlight. For gardeners that want one of the easier types of hibiscus to grow, this is one of the less temperamental varieties.

Blue River II

Blue River II
Blue River II is one of the most famous tropical plant species that grows well in the subtropics, tropics, and partly in temperate latitudes.
Scientific name: Hibiscus moscheutos
  • Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
  • Geographic Origin: North America
  • Plant Size: 4-5 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun, partial shade
  • Plant Zone: 4-9

Blue River II hibiscus flowers are massive and close to the size of a normal dinner plate. From a distance, they are a soft cream color, but as you look closer you’ll see they have a very subtle blue tint that is the reason for the name.

They grow in abundance, so you’ll have a green bush covered with beautiful blossoms. And every year that they return, the blossoms will only grow larger and larger. So the longer you care for these, the more they will flourish year after year.

Bold and Sassy

Bold and Sassy Hibiscus
The ruffled petals of the Bold and Sassy hibiscus are pale white and pink with a bright pink center and yellow edges.
Image courtesy of @plantladylils
Scientific name: Hibiscus rosa-sinensis
  • Plant Type: Annual
  • Geographic Origin: Asia
  • Plant Size: 2-4 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun, Partial Shade
  • Plant Zone: 9-11

This fancy exotic tropical hibiscus plant is not like your typical hardy hibiscus you will find at your local nursery. They are more difficult to propagate and, therefore, harder to find. Once you do get your hands on these beauties, they will not disappoint!

The petals of the Bold and Sassy hibiscus are reminiscent of a flamenco dancer; they flutter and flow in stunning pastel colors. Be sure to plant your Bold and Sassy in slightly acidic soil and place in an area that will receive full to partial sunlight.

Chasing Rainbows

Chasing Rainbows
Chasing Rainbows produces single 6-8 inch flowers in mixed rings of tangerine-orange, and pink with red-eye and lilac rays.
Scientific name: Iris germanica
  • Plant Type: Herbaceous, perennial herb
  • Geographic Origin: Mediterranean region
  • Plant Size: 6-8 inches tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun, partial shade
  • Plant Zone: 11

As the name suggests, this variety of hibiscus is super colorful and vibrant. It can be bright orange with dark shades of pink, but it can also come in shades of cream with color accents around the petals.

The colors bleed together in blended rings, creating an enchanting tie-dye effect. The upright, lush bush the blossoms grow off is upright and full of bright green leaves. If you want a hibiscus that screams with color, Chasing rainbows is one of the best plants to add to your garden.

Cheeky Point (Cheeky Fellow)

Cheeky Point (Cheeky Fellow)
Cheeky Point flowering begins in spring and ends with the onset of autumn.
Scientific name: Hibiscus rosa sinensis
  • Plant Type: Perennial shrub
  • Geographic Origin: Asia
  • Plant Size: 8-12 inches tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun, partial shade
  • Plant Zone: 4-9

The Cheeky point or Cheeky fellow types of hibiscus has a unique and gorgeous appearance. They are typically a hot pink with orange accents, creating an exotic and tropical look. The petals overlap one another in a swirling pattern that gives an elegant appearance to each blossom.

They almost look artificial because of how beautiful and distinct the arrangement of each petal is. These flowers aren’t too difficult to grow, but they do love a lot of water and sunlight.

Cosmic Dancer

Cosmic Dancer
Cosmic Dancer can grow in a shaded place, as well as in bright but diffused light.
Scientific name: Hibiscus rosa sinensis
  • Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
  • Geographic Origin: Asia
  • Plant Size: 5 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun
  • Plant Zone: 11

The Cosmic dancer variety of hibiscus is a tropical and exotic-looking flower that can breathe life into the dullest garden. It looks similar to the fiesta hibiscus, and has massive petals and an elongated style that tropical types of hibiscus flowers are known for.

For something that will wow guests and fellow gardeners, this variety of hibiscus is a must-have. It isn’t tough to care for but loves to be in full sun as much as possible. The petals are often a deep shade of red, pink, or orange with yellow accents around the edges.

Cotton Rose

Hibiscus mutabilis
The homeland of the Hibiscus mutabilis is considered to be South China.
Scientific name: Hibiscus mutabilis
  • Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
  • Geographic Origin: China, Taiwan
  • Plant Size: 12-15 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun, partial shade
  • Plant Zone: 9-10

Despite its name, the Cotton rose is a variety of hibiscus that has lovely white petals that overlap to create a carnation or rose-like blossom.

The edges of the petals often take on a light pink color, like they were dipped in a dye. They are often used for weddings because of their delicate beauty, but they will add a classy look to even the most overwhelming garden.

Cranberry Crush

Hibiscus acetosella
Young leaves of Hibiscus Acetosella have a sour and tart taste, they can be used as food.
Scientific name: Hibiscus acetosella
  • Plant Type: Perennial shrub
  • Geographic Origin: Africa
  • Plant Size: 3-4 feet
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun
  • Plant Zone: 4-9

The Cranberry crush is a popular one of the hibiscus varieties because it’s bright and bold and absolutely intoxicating. These blossoms can grow up to a foot in width, making them a show-stopping plant in your garden.

They are a vibrant shade of red that comes very close to the color of fresh cranberries. The blossoms are almost perfectly round with slightly crinkled petals that fan out for a beautiful appearance.

Dark Continent

Dark Continent
Dark Continent prefers high humidity. Systematically moisten the flower in the spring and summer.
Scientific name: Hibiscus rosa-sinensis
  • Plant Type: Deciduous shrub
  • Geographic Origin: Africa
  • Plant Size: 6 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun
  • Plant Zone: 9-10

The Dark continent hibiscus varieties are beautiful and almost-eerie-looking flowers. It typically has a deep shade of purple in the center that spreads a few inches out. The edges of the wrinkled, ruffled petals are often a rich shade of gold that makes for a stunning contrast against the purple.

If you want something unique and interesting in your garden, this is a fairly easy plant to care for. The colors often bleed together in a swirling pattern, giving the blossoms a mesmerizing aspect that will engage all your guests and fellow gardeners.

Delta Dawn

Delta Dawn Hibiscus
Delta Dawn is a fairly new hybrid of hibiscus that has been around since 2007.
Image courtesy of @plantladylils
Scientific name: Hibiscus rosa-sinensis
  • Plant Type: Annual
  • Geographic Origin: Asia
  • Plant Size: 6-8 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun
  • Plant Zone: 9-10

The Delta Dawn hibiscus hybrid has dark-green foliage with 7 inches blooms that highlight this fast-growing and semi-uprught bush variety. You will find the flowers blooming in red to medium purple in color.

As with most hibiscus, plant in neutral to slightly acidic soil in an area with full sun to partial shade. Make sure to water thoroughly and fertilize with a hibiscus friendly fertilizer upon planting to encourage maximum blooming. This plant requires heavy pruning to keep it looking its best.

Donna Lynn

Donna Lynn
Regular top-dressing of Donna Lynn is carried out in April-September with a frequency of 1 time in half a month.
Scientific name: Hibiscus rosa-sinensis
  • Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
  • Geographic Origin: Asia
  • Plant Size: 6-8 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun, partial shade
  • Plant Zone: 10

The Donna Lynn variety of hibiscus is bright and beautiful. It will bring a happy and summery vibe to your garden, and they get bigger year after year. The petals usually combine cream, yellow, and bright pink colors that bleed together to create a tie-dye appearance.

These have such positive energy and are easy to care for, so planting this in your garden will breathe life into it if you have too many green plants and not enough color.

Double

Double
‘Double’ is an elegant plant with beautiful double delicate flowers.
Scientific name: Hibiscus syriacus
  • Plant Type: Perennial shrub
  • Geographic Origin: Asia
  • Plant Size: 5-6 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun
  • Plant Zone: 7-10

The Double hibiscus variety is unique because it can grow in almost any color. This hybrid can be a rich purple, happy pink, or ferocious red. It all depends on the seeds you get, and sometimes different colors will even grow on the same bush.

They are called the Double hibiscus because they look like two hibiscus flowers stacked on top of each other. There are so many petals layered on top of one another that they have a fluffy and thick appearance, and you can barely even see the center.

Electric Plum

Electric Plum Hibiscus
The deep purple petals are unique compared to other brightly-colored tropical hibiscus flowers.
Image courtesy of @plantladylils
Scientific name: Hibiscus rosa sinensis
  • Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
  • Geographic Origin: Africa
  • Plant Size: 7-9 feet
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun, partial sun
  • Plant Zone: 5-10

Most hibiscus varieties are bright and colorful, but the Electric plum variety is unique and has a goth vibe that many people see as a rare blossom. The Electric plum variety isn’t too hard to find, and it is resilient against cold climates and dry soil.

They take on the shape of your standard types of hibiscus with wide petals that lightly flare out. The color is where this variety is truly unique. They are a dark shade of purple that reminds people of a plum, hence the name! So if you love classy purples, you’ll love adding this to your flower collection.

Expect Miracles

Expect Miracles
While the ‘Expect Miracles’ bush is young, it must be replanted regularly once a year.
Scientific name: Hibiscus rosa-sinensis
  • Plant Type: Perennial shrub
  • Geographic Origin: China
  • Plant Size: 8-12 feet
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun
  • Plant Zone: 5-8

The Expect miracles variety of hibiscus is a radiant flower that can brighten up even the darkest corner of your garden. They are a rich shade of orange that many people think is red or pink. The plant has an exotic and tropical vibe but is resilient to tough weather.

They don’t like the cold and love the full sun, but they are tough and often survive the chillier or cloudier days.

Galaxy

Galaxy
‘Hibiscus Galaxy’ is an incredibly beautiful perennial shrub, which is highly valued by flower growers for its impressive appearance and long flowering.
Scientific name: Hibiscus moscheutos
  • Plant Type: Deciduous shrub
  • Geographic Origin: Asia
  • Plant Size: 4-6 feet
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun, partial sun
  • Plant Zone: 5-9

Galaxy hibiscus flowers live up to their name, as they have a mix of different colors that swirl together and look like one of the incredible galaxies in the universe. You can bring the stars and planets into your backyard by planting this gorgeous shrub.

You never know what color your petals will be, whether it’s pink, blue, red, orange, purple, or yellow. But you will definitely get a blossom that combines different colors for an exciting and different type of flower in your garden. Just make sure they get all the sun you can offer!

Gwen Mary

Gwen Mary
Gwen Mary has bright pink petals with ruffled edges that give them a soft look.
Scientific name: Hibiscus syriacus
  • Plant Type: Perennial shrub
  • Geographic Origin: Asia
  • Plant Size: 4-6 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun
  • Plant Zone: 9-11

The Gwen Mary hibiscus flower has vivid pink petals that put many other flowers to shame. If you want that hot Barbie pink and something that will energize your garden, you can’t do better than the Gwen Mary flower. They have a distinct yellow style that makes the beautiful shade of pink pop even more.

They have ruffled edges that have a flowy and soft appearance rather than the crinkled texture many other hibiscus varieties have. Plus, the leaves are a vibrant shade of green, making the bush all the more colorful and dazzling.

Hamabo

Hibiscus Hamabo
‘Hamabo’ hibiscus needs a warm, wind-sheltered and sunny location.
Scientific name: Hibiscus syriacus
  • Plant Type: Deciduous shrub
  • Geographic Origin: Asia
  • Plant Size: 3-10 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun
  • Plant Zone: 9-11

Hamabo is easily one of the most unique hibiscus varieties on this list. Rather than the flared, tubular petals or even the ruffled layered blossoms, these petals curl backward, making them look like a pair of cuffed jeans.

They are always a happy shade of yellow that sometimes leans toward lime green, so they’ll make a statement among your other flowers. Hamabo hibiscus have a deep center, adding to the cuffed and cupped look. They have an exotic feel and will be a unique addition to even the most peculiar gardens.

Hula Girl

Hula Girl
‘Hula Girl’ Hibiscus thrives in any loose, quality garden soil, as long as the risk of standing water is minimal.
Scientific name: Hibiscus rosa-sinensis
  • Plant Type: Perennial shrub
  • Geographic Origin: Africa
  • Plant Size: 6-8 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun
  • Plant Zone: 10-11

The Hula girl hibiscus plant is one of the happiest flowers you can plant in your garden. It’s a luminous shade of yellow, similar to a ripe banana, so it will bring some happiness and vibrance to your garden, even if you already have yellow flowers.

Unlike sunflowers or daisies, this shade of yellow truly glows with the color, making it seem like its own source of light when the sun shines on it. The yellow contrasts with the bright red center, giving the blossom a memorable, tropical appearance.

Jolanda Gommer

Jolanda Gommer
‘Jolanda Gommer’ Hibiscus are planted in large planting pits, at the bottom of which it is better to lay at least minimal drainage.
Scientific name: Hibiscus rosa-sinensis
  • Plant Type: Perennial Shrub
  • Geographic Origin: Asia
  • Plant Size: 6-7 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun, partial shade
  • Plant Zone: 9

The Jolanda Gommer hibiscus blossom is unique. It has a strange wrinkled texture that makes the petals look thick and almost hard.

They have a combination of colors that foster a sunset vibe, including pink, orange, red, yellow, and hints of white or purple. This variety is one of the more colorful hibiscus, which is impressive as almost all hibiscus varieties have boldly colored petals.

Lady Baltimore

Hibiscus Lady Baltimore
‘Lady Baltimore’ has huge flowers, pink with a raspberry center.
Scientific name: Hibiscus syriacus
  • Plant Type: Perennial shrub
  • Geographic Origin: Asia
  • Plant Size: 4-5 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun
  • Plant Zone: 2-9

The Lady Baltimore variety is another hibiscus with two colors that bleed into each other. The large petals create a tubular shape, and the blossoms can be as large as nine inches in width.

They are a cream color, and as you move inward toward the center, they take on a deep, rich shade of violet that is breathtaking. In rare cases, the deep violet or red center can expand to the entire blossom. Each petal has a soft and subtle crinkle, creating depth and texture to the flower.

Lady Stanley

Hibiscus Lady Stanley
‘Lady Stanley’ blooms from June to August with bright pink double flowers with a dark red spot in the middle.
Scientific name: Hibiscus syriacus
  • Plant Type: Deciduous shrub
  • Geographic Origin: Asia
  • Plant Size: 5-12 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun, partial shade
  • Plant Zone: 5-9

The Lady Stanley variety of hibiscus is a beautiful flower with a delicate but distinct appearance. They are white or cream-colored blossoms with overlapping petals that swirl around each other.

They have a very romantic and enticing aura that will make your garden an enchanting place. The plant is also pretty adaptable, so most climates will be gentle enough to allow this flower to flourish.

Luna Red

Hibiscus Luna Red
‘Luna Red’ loves the sun. With a lack of light, the shrub withers and blooms poorly.
Scientific name: Hibiscus moscheutos
  • Plant Type: Perennial shrub
  • Geographic Origin: Asia
  • Plant Size: 2-3 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun
  • Plant Zone: 5-9

The Luna red is one of the most vibrant and sought-after varieties of hibiscus. They are a bright but deep shade of red that creates an elegant and charming pop of color in any backyard or front garden.

These flowers were often given as gifts in China, symbolizing respect and family, so they carry a beautiful meaning. For an eye-catching addition to your garden, it’s hard not to love the Luna red hibiscus blossoms.

Marianne Charlton

Marianne Charlton
This exotic hibiscus blooms with full, ruffled 6-8 inch double flowers in shades of blue, purple, pink, gray, and white.
Image courtesy of @plantladylils
Scientific name: Hibiscus rosa-sinensis
  • Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
  • Geographic Origin: Asia
  • Plant Size: 6-10 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun, Partial shade
  • Plant Zone: 10-11

Marianne Charlton is a tropical hibiscus that was hybridized by Schlueter. It is a fairly new hibiscus hybrid, as it was introduced in 2011. It prefers to grow in warm, humid climates and does best in USDA growing zones 10 and 11.

The frilly, double violet petals with pink tones in the heart of the flower can be seen on the shrub from Late spring or early summer through later summer to early fall. The back of each petal is white with deep grey/lavender edges. Each blossom is truly unique!

Misty Pink

Hibiscus Misty Pink
‘Misty Pink’ Hibiscus loves stable humidity, but also tolerates drought well.
Scientific name: Hibiscus rosa-sinensis
  • Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
  • Geographic Origin:
  • Plant Size: 6-10 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun
  • Plant Zone: 9-10

The Misty pink variety is one of the rarest hibiscus plants, meaning it will be tough to find and plant in your garden. But if you do have the fortune of getting your hands on this variety, you’ll be able to enjoy its alluring appearance and scent.

It attracts lots of wildlife like bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies. So planting this is likely to make your garden abuzz with tiny creatures. They are a very soft or ‘misty’ shade of pink with dramatic petals that flare outward and will wow any gardener.

Pink Giant

Hibiscus Pink Giant
‘Pink Giant’ needs periodic weeding, mulching, pruning of shoots and removal of wilted buds.
Scientific name: Hibiscus rosa-sinensis
  • Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
  • Geographic Origin: China
  • Plant Size: 9-10 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun
  • Plant Zone: 7-11

As the name suggests, this pink hibiscus has large blossoms spread several inches wide and sometimes up to one foot. If you want a jaw-dropping hibiscus variety in your garden, you’ll be excited to hear that these aren’t too hard to take care of.

The key to growing flourishing Pink giants is to make sure they have plenty of space in the soil because they grow large roots. And the other important aspect is to give them as much sunlight as possible.

Red Heart

Hibiscus Red Heart
‘Red Heart’ is a deciduous compact shrub with a dense uniform crown and large snow-white flowers.
Scientific name: Hibiscus syriacus
  • Plant Type: Deciduous shrub
  • Geographic Origin: Asia
  • Plant Size: 5-8 feet
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun
  • Plant Zone: 5-8

The Red heart hibiscus variety is one of the most exquisite flowers due to its distinct appearance. It has the typical shape of hibiscus with large petals and a tubular shape. The petals are mostly a crisp white color, but the center has a deep red or purple accent, which is how it got its name.

The center is seen as the red heart of the flower. In Asia, these flowers were even eaten and brewed to make tea because they believed it could improve heart health! But as far as western science knows, they’re just beautiful flowers for your garden.

Russian Violet

Hibiscus Russian Violet
‘Russian Violet’ grows about 2 meters in height. In June-September it blooms with large flowers.
Scientific name: Hibiscus syriacus
  • Plant Type: Deciduous shrub
  • Geographic Origin: Asian
  • Plant Size: 6-7 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun, full shade
  • Plant Zone: 5

The Russian violet hibiscus has an interesting shape that differs from many other hibiscus varieties.

The petals are spaced out, allowing each petal to have a distinct shape that you notice. The petals are pink, but many people expect them to be dark purple because of the name. But it often has accents of light violet color with soft pink.

Shanghai Pink

Hibiscus paramutabilis
‘Shanghai Pink’ Hibiscus thrives on mulching, which helps retain moisture and acts as a protection against extreme heat.
Scientific name: Hibiscus paramutabilis
  • Plant Type: Bare root perennial
  • Geographic Origin: China
  • Plant Size: 10 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun
  • Plant Zone: 7-10

Shanghai Pink hibiscus flowers are what many people imagine when they think of hibiscus flowers. They have a distinct tubular and wide petal shape with a long style and vibrant tropical colors.

As the name suggests, the flower is a splendid shade of pink akin to the classic Barbie color or the color of bubblegum. If you want an astonishing pop of color in your garden, the Shanghai pink variety will practically look like someone took a highlighter to your bushes.

Silver Charm

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis Silver Charm flower
‘Silver Charm’ can often be mistaken for a dahlia, given the wide blooming radius.
Scientific name: Hibiscus rosa-sinensis
  • Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
  • Geographic Origin: Africa
  • Plant Size: 3-4 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun
  • Plant Zone: 9-11

The name of this variety is a little misleading, as they are not silver or even a shade of blue. The Silver charm hibiscus variety is usually cream color with a yellow or orange tint. The blossom is delicate and fluffy, with ruffled petals and a soft appearance.

The petals and blossoms are lovely, but the leaves of this plant are also attractive. They are round, shiny leaves with a forest green color that acts as a beautiful frame for the elegant flowers.

Southern Bell

Hibiscus moscheutos
‘Southern Bell’ is widely applicable in the cultural customs and culinary traditions of China, Indonesia and Fiji.
Scientific name: Hibiscus moscheutos
  • Plant Type: Perennial shrub
  • Geographic Origin: North America
  • Plant Size: 2-3 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun, partial sun
  • Plant Zone: 1-12

The Southern belle hibiscus variety looks slightly different from other varieties of hibiscus. The blossoms can grow to be several inches wide or just a few centimeters. It depends on where they grow and what temperatures they grow in.

But they are very cold-hardy, so if you live in a cold climate, you can still have the tropical-looking garden you’ve always dreamed about. The flowers are usually wide and flat with a combination of cream and light pink petals with a dark purple eye in the center.

Summer Storm

Summer Storm
Hibiscus ‘Summer Storm’ has dark foliage that contrasts with beautiful pink flowers.
Scientific name: Hibiscus moscheutos
  • Plant Type: Herbaceous perennials
  • Geographic Origin: Asia
  • Plant Size: 3-4 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun
  • Plant Zone: 5

Summer storms have large blossoms that are several inches wide with layers of delicate, thin petals. They overlap, creating layers that give them a thick and luscious appearance.

The giant tubular blossoms are a soft pink color with a deep purple eye in the center, creating depth and drama. The bush the blossoms grow on has large, super dark green leaves spaced out, giving the shrub a light and airy appearance rather than a dense bush.

Tahitian Flaming Dragon

Tahitian Flaming Dragon
‘Tahitian Flaming Dragon’ is a stunningly beautiful tropical hibiscus that produces fiery red and bright orange flowers.
Scientific name: Hibiscus rosa-sinensis
  • Plant Type: Perennial shrub
  • Geographic Origin:
  • Plant Size: 1-2 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun
  • Plant Zone: 7-9

The Tahitian flaming dragon flower is a resilient tropical flower that can flourish in almost any garden. The blossoms take on fiery reds and vibrant oranges. These ruffled and large blossoms will look like flames on the lush bush full of dark green leaves.

They sometimes take on a shade of dark, deep pink, with white accents in the center that run along with the petals. Best of all, they’re a tough flower that almost any gardener can care for.

Tahitian Lavender Mirage

Tahitian Lavender Mirage Hibiscus
The tri-color petals of the ‘Tahitian Lavender Mirage’ Hibiscus are lavender with pale yellow edges and red center.
Scientific name: Hibiscus rosa-sinensis
  • Plant Type: Perennial shrub
  • Geographic Origin: Asia
  • Plant Size: 5-8 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun, partial shade
  • Plant Zone: 5-8

It’s hard not to fall in love with the Tahitian lavender mirage hibiscus the moment you see it. It comes in different color combinations but always includes the delicate shade of lavender you would expect.

But the blossoms look like a work of art with shades of cream, orange, dark purple, and more. The blossoms are large and bring a tropical aura to your garden but are simple to take care of with rich soil and decent sun.

Tsunami

hibiscus Tsunami
‘Tsunami’ is a beautiful coral color, with a pink center of the bloom.
Scientific name: Hibiscus rosa sinensis
  • Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
  • Geographic Origin: Asia
  • Plant Size: 2-4 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun
  • Plant Zone: 10

Tsunami hibiscus flowers have ruffles and wrinkled petals that create a unique texture on the blossom. They appear very large and thick, especially when they grow over several years. The ruffled texture of the petals makes the flowers look aged and sometimes dry, but this is how they’re meant to look.

The blossoms are eight inches wide, offering massive pops of color in your garden. They are typically a combination of pink, red, and orange, bringing the beautiful colors of a tropical sunset to your garden.

Voodoo Magic

hibiscus Voodoo Magic
‘Voodoo Magic’ is a highly sought after type of hibiscus.
Scientific name: Hibiscus rosa sinensis
  • Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
  • Geographic Origin: Asia
  • Plant Size: 4-8 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun
  • Plant Zone: 9-11

Voodoo magic hibiscus flowers are one of the most sought-after varieties for experienced gardeners. These blossoms are mesmerizing and intricate, setting them apart from the single-colored other varieties of hibiscus.

They have an interesting and rough appearance, almost like the petals are made of leather or thick fabric. They crinkle as they move toward the center and come in a range of fascinating colors, from orange to dusty blue to a vibrant yellow.

White Chiffon

hibiscus White Chiffon
‘White Chiffon’ is one of the most popular varieties with large snow-white flowers.
Scientific name: Hibiscus syriacus
  • Plant Type: Deciduous shrub
  • Geographic Origin: Asia
  • Plant Size: 12 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun, full shade
  • Plant Zone: 5-9

For a pure white and radiant blossom, you can plant the stunning White chiffon variety of hibiscus that grows large blossoms that are a crisp white color. The petals are wrinkled with many overlapping layers, giving them a luxurious and fluffy appearance.

Many people compare these to the Rose cotton variety, but these typically grow larger blossoms and to a taller height. Unlike the Rose cotton, these have the distinction of being bright white with no other colors to disrupt their purity.

Woodbridge

hibiscus Woodbridge
‘Woodbridge’ is a fast-growing deciduous shrub, that blooms in August-September with blue-red flowers, with a small dark spot in the middle.
Scientific name: Hibiscus syriacus
  • Plant Type: Deciduous shrub
  • Geographic Origin: Asia
  • Plant Size: 10 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun, partial shade
  • Plant Zone: 5-9

The Woodbridge hibiscus plant is a shrub that originated in Eastern Asian forests. They are tall upright shrub that bears massive Fuschia-pink flowers that grow in a spiral pattern.

The pink color makes this variety one of the most recognizable hibiscus blossoms, as the pink color is deep and darkens as you move to the outside of the petal. The plant requires little care and pruning and just needs to receive decent sun and rich soil to thrive.

Final Thoughts

No matter which type of hibiscus you choose to plant in your garden, they’ll bring a breathtaking and colorful element to your garden. These tropical plants fair better in cold climates than most people think as long as you give them the care and attention they need. These hardy plants can be a great addition to any garden, depending on your gardening goals.

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