Blue Hibiscus

!±8± Blue Hibiscus

The type of flower known as the "blue hibiscus" is one of the most popular in the world. However, this flower is neither blue nor a hibiscus. This plant is actually a type of lilac, and has more of a purple color to it rather than blue. This flower is very popular in the state of California, as well as the country of Australia. Even though the plant that produces this flower is grown all over the world, it is most popular in these two areas.

Other Names

In Australia, this flower is known as the "west coast gem", whereas in the United States it is widely known as "Monterey Bay." This type of plant was previously part of the hibiscus genus. However, today it is no longer included among the 200 species of hibiscus.

Growth Habit

This shrub can grow up to and over six feet tall and just as wide. The only reason to grow this plant is for the flowers they produce, which will produce hundreds each season. The flowers themselves are fairly large measuring between three to four inches in diameter, which will bloom one to two days.

When the bushes are kept in a compact arrangement, the leaves are a very attractive sight when it is in foliage. The plant itself grows very fast, and must be pruned constantly. This is done primarily after its flowering period. This will ensure a very strong growth and increased longevity for the shrub.

This plant originated in the southern and the western parts of Australia. This is an ideal place for it to grow due to the fact that a sunny area with good drainage is the best place to grow these plants. This area will offer an ideal environment for this plant to thrive.

Blue Hibiscus

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Pruning Hibiscus

!±8± Pruning Hibiscus

Hibiscus plants should be pruned occasionally, which is usually done in the spring. Regularly pruning these plants will make better shaped plants, as well as cause the branching and blooming of the flowers to increase. Pruning will allow the plant to produce hormones that activate buds that have become dormant. This will also reduce the amount of insects infesting the plant.

There are also some negatives to pruning the plants. The main drawback is the fact that you will not see any blooms in the area you pruned for at least a couple of months. Another draw back is the fact that your plant will look smaller or out of balanced until the new growth comes in.

When to Prune the Hibiscus Plant:

The location and weather will be the primary factors on determining when you should prune the plant. The main thing to remember is that you should never prune the plant during a time in which new growth will come in during a time when cold weather is likely. Because of this, most pruning is done between the months of February and August, depending on your local weather patterns.

If you only plan to do partial or selective pruning, there are really no drawbacks you need to concern yourself with. This type of pruning can be done at anytime of the year. However, if you plan to do a complete cutting back of the plant, you should only do this task during the early spring.

Pruning hibiscus is not a very difficult task. The only concern you should have is the weather. If you follow the simple steps to pruning, and do it during a time in which the new buds will grow in during warm weather, you should have no problems with this task.

Pruning Hibiscus

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