How Big Do Hibiscus Plants Get – How to Make it Grow Faster?

Hibiscus plants can grow about 8 to 16 feet tall and 5 to 10 feet wide in maturity. These measurements can vary depending on the specific species you have of hibiscus. Factors such as environmental conditions and proper care also influence their size.

One main thing that influences the size of hibiscus plants is the type you choose to grow. There are over 200 species of hibiscus, with each having its own features.

For instance, Giant Rose Mallow is a rare hibiscus variety known for its taller growth and wider leaves compared to other hibiscus plants. It stands out as one of the varieties that can reach impressive heights.

Aside from this, environmental necessities play an important part in defining the size of hibiscus plants. Hibiscus plants flourish in full sun in warm climates.

How Big do Hibiscus Plant Grow?

How Big Do Hibiscus Plants Get

Hibiscus plants are known for their diverse sizes, ranging from small varieties to taller plants. Knowing the growth potential of hibiscus can help you choose the right size for your garden. Let’s see in detail the different heights hibiscus plants can reach and the specific varieties – 

Small Plants – 2 to 4 feet tall

Hardy Hibiscus -Luna Blush

  • This small hibiscus variety grows 2 to 3 feet tall and 1 to 2 feet wide.
  • It features large white flowers with deep pink centres during mid-to-late summer. Good air circulation and well-drained soil are important for optimal blooming.
  • This small plant is ideal for indoors and requires minimum care.

Berry Awesome Hibiscus

  • Berry Awesome hibiscus is a stunning variety known as the dinner plate hibiscus sounds interesting right? The flowers feature a deep magenta-pink colour with a striking crimson-red eye at the centre. 
  • This small shrub showcases dark green, maple-like leaves and reaches a height of 3 to 4 feet with a width of 5 feet. Its compact size makes it a perfect choice for adding vibrant beauty to smaller gardens or containers.

Between 3 and 7 Feet Tall

Rose Mallow

  • This hibiscus variety ranges from 3 to 7 feet in height, spreading 2 to 3 feet wide.
  • It has pink or white flowers, 4 to 6 inches in diameter and blooms continuously in the summer season.

Scarlet Rose Mallow

  • This perennial hibiscus grows between 3 and 6 feet tall, spreading 2 to 3 feet wide.
  • It showcases deep red flowers measuring 3 to 5 inches wide throughout summer.

10 to 12 Feet Tall

Chinese Hibiscus

  • An evergreen hibiscus also known as Hibiscus rosa-sinensis grows 4 to 10 feet tall, spreading 5 to 8 feet wide.
  • It displays seasonal blooming with brilliant red flowers up to 8 inches wide.
  • Thrives in warm temperatures of 10°C.

Rose of Sharon

  • A deciduous shrub that grows 8 to 12 feet tall, spreading 6 to 10 feet wide.
  • It features pink flowers, 3 inches wide, with red centres.
  • During the summer and fall seasons, the rose of Sharon hibiscus dazzles with its stunning and showy displays of gorgeous flowers.

Other tall hibiscus variety

Hawaiin white hibiscus

The Hawaiian white hibiscus is a remarkable ornamental shrub known for its large, fragrant white flowers. These stunning blossoms captivate with their white petals, beautifully contrasting against the long red stamens that emerge from the flowers. 

This hibiscus can grow really tall, ranging between 10 and 30 feet in height. Furthermore, their growth habit is rounded, spreading approximately 20 feet wide, creating a lush and full appearance.

Also Read: Do Hibiscus Plants Come Back Every Year?

How to Make Hibiscus Plant Grow Faster?

There are many things to keep in mind while caring for the hibiscus plant. By providing the right conditions, nutrients, and care, you can help your hibiscus thrive and grow faster. 

1. Right Sunlight Exposure

Hibiscus plants need ample sunlight to thrive. They need at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily for growth and blooming. When choosing a location for your hibiscus, look for a spot that receives plenty of sunlight.

Avoid placing your hibiscus in areas with intense midday sun to prevent sunburn and stress. Providing the right sunlight exposure will help your hibiscus plant flourish and produce beautiful flowers.

2. Well-drained soil

Ideal soil provides the necessary support, and nutrients for your plant’s growth. Hibiscus prefers well-drained soil, which means it allows water to pass through easily without becoming waterlogged. Loamy soil, a mixture of sand, and clay, is generally a good choice for hibiscus. 

Whereas good drainage is essential to prevent water from pooling around the roots which can cause root rot issues. Well-drained soil ensures that excess water can escape, keeping the roots healthy. Also, hibiscus plants prefer slightly acidic soil in the range of 6.5 to 6.8. So, maintaining the soil slightly acidic is vital for their growth.

3. Regular watering

Proper watering is essential for the growth of the hibiscus plant. To ensure your hibiscus thrives well, it’s important to maintain consistent moisture in the soil.

Check the soil regularly by inserting your finger about an inch deep into the soil and if feels slightly dry not too dry then you can water it. When watering, aim for deep watering, ensuring the water reaches the roots. Avoid shallow watering that only wets the surface. 

This encourages the roots to grow deeper and promotes stronger, more resilient plants. Watch the soil moisture levels and modify the frequency of watering accordingly to it, based on the weather conditions and the specific needs of your hibiscus. Infrequency of watering can result in hibiscus plant turn yellow leaves.

4. Proper fertilizing

Select a balanced fertilizer that is prepared for flowering plants. Look for one with a ratio of equal or slightly higher phosphorus content compared to nitrogen and potassium. This nutrient balance supports plant growth and encourages flower production.

Fertilize your hibiscus every four to six weeks during the growing season, which starts from spring to early fall. Avoid over-fertilizing, as extreme nutrients can lead to leaf burn and hinder blooming.

The soil must be moist when applying the fertilizer. This prevents potential root damage and helps the plant absorb nutrients more effectively. Water the hibiscus thoroughly after applying the fertilizer to ensure it reaches the roots.

Also Read: Can You Grow a Hibiscus From a Cutting?

5. Pruning

Start pruning in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or damaged branches or leaves to give your plant a tidy look. When pruning, use clean and sharp scissors to make clean cuts. 

If your hibiscus has become overgrown, you can also perform more severe pruning. Remove any crossing or dead branches. Additionally, trimming back the plant to achieve uniform stem length can enhance its overall appearance.

6. Problem of pests and diseases

Protect your hibiscus from disease and pests that can cause great harm to the hibiscus plant. Inspect your plant for common pests like whiteflies, aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites, and take quick action if you notice any signs of infestation. 

Use natural methods such as water sprays, insecticides and fungicides. Prevent fungal diseases by ensuring good air circulation around the plant, watering at the base to avoid wetting the foliage, and removing fallen leaves and debris. 

Practising good hygiene and monitoring your hibiscus for any signs of distress or disease can help you to overcome this problem. Spreading Epsom salt around the hibiscus plant to increasing blooming.

7. Care for Winter

Caring for your hibiscus during winter is necessary for its fast growth in the upcoming growing season. When temperatures drop, take appropriate action. If you live in an area with harsh winters, consider bringing your hibiscus indoors to a well-lit area near a window. 

Maintain a temperature range of 50-60°F and a temperature below 50°F can trouble your plant. During the dormant period, adjust your watering routine to avoid overwatering. 

Check this out: How Long Does Hibiscus Flower Last?

FAQs

How fast do hibiscus grow from seed?

Hibiscus plants grown from seeds have a moderate growth rate. It takes about 3 to 4 weeks for hibiscus seeds to germinate and sprout.

Once the seedlings emerge, they will continue to grow steadily, with visible growth progress in terms of height and leaf development. Providing optimal growing conditions can help facilitate healthier and faster growth. 

How big do braided hibiscus trees get?

Braided hibiscus trees can grow to varying heights depending on the care they receive. Generally, braided hibiscus trees can reach heights 6 feet tall. The width of the tree is 2 to 4 feet wide, giving it a compact and manageable size.

How much space does a Hibiscus plant need?

Hibiscus plants require enough space to adjust their mature size and allow for proper air circulation. Smaller varieties need around 2 to 3 feet of spacing, while larger varieties may require 4 to 6 feet or more. 

Check this: How to Use Coffee Grounds for Hibiscus?

How can I make my hibiscus grow faster at home?

To encourage faster growth of your hibiscus at home, ensure it receives a good amount of sunlight and water it consistently, keeping the soil evenly moist.

Fertilize regularly with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season and prune to promote branching and bushier growth. You can add organic matter like bone meal to enrich hibiscus plant.

Conclusion

The size of hibiscus plants can vary depending on the specific species and variety. While some hibiscus plants remain relatively small and compact, others can grow to impressive heights. On average, hibiscus plants reach a height range of 8 to 16 feet and a width of 5 to 10 feet at maturity. 

Furthermore, dwarf varieties are available that stay smaller, as well as taller and more expansive varieties like the Giant Rose Mallow. Understanding the potential size of hibiscus plants allows gardeners to plan accordingly and choose the right varieties for their available space. However, the right care can also make a difference in their growth. Providing with the proper sun, water, and fertilizer, also caring for the winter effect in their growing process.