Cotton Rose

Hibiscus mutabilis

Shrub4.6×3 mzone 7–11full sun

Profile

Family: Malvaceae
Habit: Shrub
Height: 4.6 m
Spread: 3 m
Growth: fast
Lifespan: 111 years
First yield: after 11 years
Hardiness: zone 7–11
Shade tolerance: full sun
Soil: Sand, Silt
Soil moisture: semi-dry – very moist
pH: 5.3 – 8
Synonyms: Dixie Rosemallow, Cotton rose

Flowering & harvest

	J	F	M	A	M	J	J	A	S	O	N	D
Flowering
Leaf harvest

Times apply to the northern hemisphere in a temperate climate and shift with altitude and cultivar.

Uses

Edible1 of 10

Medicinal1 of 10

Other uses1 of 10

Growing

Hibiscus mutabilis prefers full sun with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. It grows best in well-drained loamy or sandy loam soils with a pH between 5.5 and 8.0. Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during the first growing season. Propagation is best done by stem cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. Prune annually in late winter to encourage vigorous flowering on new wood. Avoid planting in compacted clay soils and do not prune after mid-July to ensure good bloom production.

⚠️ Hazards

Toxicity: slightly toxic

This is no substitute for expert identification. When in doubt, do not eat it.

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