Question: I have a hibiscus plant that will bloom, but the blooms will not open up completely before they die. I have planted it in the ground and fertilized it. I water it everyday, but nothing seems to work. What
should I try next?
Hardiness Zone: 9a
Keri from Houston, TX
Answer: Keri,
What kind of hibiscus do you have? There are hundreds of varieties available, many with curious flower forms. For example, the variety "Flower of an Hour" (Hibiscus trionum) has 2 inch wide white to pale yellow flowers with dark centers that typically only bloom for a couple of hours each day.
Is it possible you have a "Turk's Cap" (Malvaviscus penduliflorus)? This flower is isn't technically a hibiscus, but it's closely related. The fact that it is often referred to as "Sleeping Hibiscus" only adds to the confusion. The flowers resemble those of a "wilted" hibiscus. They never fully open, but hang down in a tubular fashion from the stems of the plant (this is a clever adaptation by the plant to encourage pollination by hummingbirds, which are typically attracted to bell-shaped flowers. Here is a picture for reference:
If what you have turns out to be a Turk's Cap, it will bloom off and on throughout the year, usually looking its best in early winter.
Another possibility is bud drop (leaves start to open then dry up and fall off). This is common with hibiscuses, and is caused by stress from improper watering (not enough), too much fertilizer, extremely hot weather, or insect damage from the likes of aphids or thrips. Double flowered varieties of hibiscus seem to be particularly susceptible to bud drop.
Ellen
About The Author: Ellen Brown is an environmental writer and photographer and the owner of Sustainable Media, an environmental media company that specializes in helping businesses and organizations promote eco-friendly products and services. Contact her on the web at http://www.sustainable-media.com
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RE: Hibiscus Flowers Not Opening
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Post By chris (Guest Post)
(09/19/2008)
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i have a variegated hibiscus that when I water too much, things do not go well. They tend to have very deep roots, so don't need a lot of water. The one I have is really pretty, I bought it for the leaves. They are crinkly, bumped with a slightly pink tinge to the outside edge. It's very distinctive.
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RE: Hibiscus Flowers Not Opening
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Post By WeldrBrat (Guest Post)
(07/07/2008)
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Keri,
I grew up down in Texas City. They need morning sun and afternoon shade. You also want to make sure there's extra compost in that gumbo soil for proper drainage. Lowe's carries a really great planting mix that would be perfect. I can't remember the brand, but it's one of the off-beat brands and runs about $3 cheaper than the ... ahem... two major brands that most people know. lol
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RE: Hibiscus Flowers Not Opening
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Post By josh (Guest Post)
(07/02/2008)
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Are you sure they are the type that fully opens? Not all of the Hibiscus flowers fully open certain types do not.
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