Hibiscus mutabilis – Cotton Rose

Description

Hibiscus mutabilis – Cotton Rose

Family: Malvaceae
Packet Size: 10 seeds

Description

Hibiscus mutabilis is a large flowering shrub or small tree known for its beautiful flowers that deepen in colour as they age. Blossoms often open white or pale pink and gradually turn rose to deeper pink, giving a captivating display of several tones on one plant.

Also called Confederate Rose, the species has large, softly lobed leaves and a relaxed, bushy outline. It makes a striking informal screen or background shrub in a warm sunny garden.

Key Features

• Flowers: Broad hibiscus blooms that deepen from pale shades to rosy pink over time.
• Leaves: Large, lightly lobed green foliage.
• Habit: Bushy, multi-stemmed shrub or small tree with a generous flowering display.

Growing Conditions

• Light: Full sun for plentiful flowers; light shelter in hot exposed positions.
• Soil: Well-drained, compost-enriched soil with steady water during the growing season.
• Climate: Warm subtropical to mild temperate gardens; frost can damage tender top growth.
• Care: Mulch, water during dry spells and prune back lightly to maintain a compact framework.

Propagation from Seed

1. Prepare: Sow in spring using clean seed and a fresh, freely draining seed-raising medium.
2. Sow: Cover shallowly by around 3–5 mm, avoiding excessive burial.
3. Germinate: Provide moderate warmth (roughly 18–24°C) and even moisture without waterlogging.
4. Grow on: Pot up established seedlings and gradually acclimatise outdoors; protect new growth from frost.

Growing Note

The changing flower colour reflects the ageing of individual blooms; flowers on different plants may also vary in their initial shade.

Germination advice: These instructions are a recommended guide. Germination results and timing may vary depending on seed freshness, storage, temperature and growing conditions. Alternative propagation methods may also be successful.