Growing Scarlet Rosemallows in the garden and landscape can be a rewarding experience. Learn all about How to Grow Texas Star Hibiscus. The garden is sure to be blessed with bright crimson and white blooms.

Botanical Name: Hibiscus coccineus

USDA Zones: 8-11

Colors: Red, Maroon, and White

Soil pH: 

Learn how to grow Hibiscus indoors here

Texas Star Hibiscus Plant Information

Growing Rosemallow or the Texas Star Hibiscus is usually for its attractive, large, white and red, star-shaped flowers. The plant usually grows up to 6-10 feet tall and produces star-shaped, long leaves frequently mistaken for marijuana. It is also known as Red Hibiscus, Swamp Hibiscus, and Scarlet Rose Mallow. 

There are over 200 unique species of hibiscus worldwide, and Texas Star Hibiscus is hardy in USDA Zones 8-11. It is native to the Pacific Coast and the southern United States. 

Check out the different varieties of Hibiscus here

Propagating Texas Star Hibiscus from Cutings

It is ideal for propagating Texas Star Hibiscus in early summer or spring. Follow these instructions:

  • Take 5-6 inches long cutting from a healthy and mature plant.
  • Remove leaves from the bottom.
  • Dip the cut end in the rooting hormone to encourage faster growth. You can skip this part.
  • Poke a hole in the growing medium that is big enough for the cutting so that the rooting hormone does not rub off. Place the cutting and pat the soil around it to secure the stem in its place.
  • Water gently to keep the growing medium evenly moist.
  • Use a clear plastic bag to cover the container and keep it in a warm spot. The temperature should be 60°F or 15°C and higher.
  • You will notice new growth in 8-10 weeks and can transplant it carefully to a bigger container or garden.

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Growing Texas Star Hibiscus from Seeds

Texas Star Hibiscus can be quickly grown from seeds. You can either buy or collect them after the plant has bloomed.

  • Sow seeds 1 inch deep in a well-draining growing medium, 6-12 weeks indoors before the last frost date.
  • Before sowing, remember to soak the seeds overnight. It will make it easy to nick them to let water in.
  • Place the container in full sunlight for 5-7 hours daily. Keep the growing medium moist.
  • The seeds will germinate in 3-4 weeks.

Here are the Best Types of Hibiscus You Can Grow

Growing Requirements for Texas Star Hibiscus

Sunlight

For Growing Rosemallow to its full potential, you should provide at least 6-7 hours of full, bright, direct sunlight. However, it is best to place them in a shaded location from the intense heat in the afternoon if you live in a warmer zone (10-11). 

Soil

The Texas Star Hibiscus loves to grow in rich, moist soil with excellent drainage. If you have ponds or water features in your garden, it is perfect for growing them around that area for good moisture. 

Alternatively, you can mix composted bark, peat moss, or coco coir in sand or perlite in equal parts to encourage the best growth.

Water

Texas Star Hibiscus needs regular watering, and you shall water it 2-43 times a week. If the top 2-4 inches of the soil feel almost dry, it is time to water. Avoid watering the plant daily. 

Temperature and Humidity

The ideal temperature range to grow this Hibiscus is in a range of 65-75°F or 18-25°C. Bring the plant indoors if the temperature begins to dip to 32°F or 0°C or less. 

Texas Star Hibiscus needs a medium humidity level, and the 40-60 percent range is best for its growth. 

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Texas Star Hibiscus Care

Fertilizer

Rosemallows will benefit from regular feeding. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to 1/2 of its strength, once in 6-8 weeks to boost the growth. You can also add compost, rich in potassium, to the soil.

Pruning

Prune the plant every now and then to snip away dead and damaged leaves and stems. Also, make sure you take away the spent flowers.

Prune one-third of the selected and crowded branches once or twice a year. It will stimulate the branching of the plant, making it look fuller.

Pests & Plant Diseases

Japanese beetles, whiteflies, sawfly larvae, mealybugs, aphids, thrips, and spider mites, love this plant.

This plant also gets affected by many fungal diseases like blight, rust, and leaf spot. Keep in mind not to water at the base of the plant to avoid providing extra moisture to the foliage. 

Have a look at these beautiful Hibiscus pictures from Instagram here

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