Rose of Sharon Hibiscus 'Tosca'
ABOUT
The Hibiscus 'Tosca' is a striking plant known for its showy flowers. It features large, trumpet-shaped blooms that boast a beautiful blend of colors, typically including shades of peach, pink, and orange with a deep red center. Each flower consists of five broad petals which can sometimes have slightly ruffled edges, creating a lush and tropical appearance. The vibrant blooms stand out against the plant's glossy, dark green foliage. The leaves are ovate with toothed edges, and they can have a somewhat leathery texture. The Hibiscus 'Tosca' is a deciduous shrub, meaning it sheds its leaves annually. Its eye-catching flowers, coupled with the rich green leaves, make it a popular choice for ornamental purposes in gardens and landscaping.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Tosca Hibiscus, Rose Mallow, Rose Of Sharon, Tropical Hibiscus.
Common names
Hibiscus 'Tosca'.
ToxicityTo humans
The Hibiscus 'Tosca', commonly known as hibiscus, is not considered toxic to humans. Generally, hibiscus plants are known to be safe, and some species are even used in teas and as edible garnishes. Consequently, ingesting parts of this plant typically does not lead to poisoning or cause harmful symptoms for most people.
To pets
Hibiscus 'Tosca', commonly known as hibiscus, is considered to have a low level of toxicity to pets, such as dogs and cats. If pets consume hibiscus in large quantities, they might experience mild gastrointestinal upset, including symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. However, these symptoms are typically not severe. Pet owners should always monitor their pets and consult a veterinarian if any concerning symptoms arise after ingestion of any plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
5-8 feet (1.5-2.4 meters)
Spread
5-8 feet (1.5-2.4 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Blossoms: Hibiscus 'Tosca' features large, colorful flowers that can add aesthetic appeal to gardens and landscapes.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, this plant is tolerant of short periods of drought, making it suitable for xeriscaping.
- Attracts Pollinators: The vibrant flowers attract pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, supporting local ecosystems.
- Easy Maintenance: Hibiscus 'Tosca' requires minimal care once established, suitable for gardeners of all levels.
- Fast Growth: This plant is known for its fast growth rate, quickly filling in garden spaces and providing a lush appearance.
- Long Blooming Season: The hibiscus typically has a generous blooming period, offering color and interest for much of the warmer months.
- Versatility: It can be used in a variety of garden settings, including borders, hedges, and as a focal point in garden beds.
- Heat Resistance: Hibiscus 'Tosca' can thrive in hot conditions, making it ideal for warm climates.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Hair care: In some cultures, hibiscus is used in shampoos or conditioners because it is believed to promote hair growth and prevent premature graying.
- Natural dye: The flowers of the hibiscus can be used to make a natural dye for fabrics or hair, imparting a range of colors from pink to purple.
- Culinary garnish: Edible hibiscus flowers can be candied and used to decorate cakes or desserts for an exotic touch.
- Paper making: The fibrous parts of the hibiscus plant can be used in the production of fine paper, offering an alternative to traditional wood pulp.
- Shoe polish: Hibiscus flowers contain natural oils that can be processed and used to polish shoes, giving them a shine without the use of synthetic chemicals.
- Jewelry making: Dried hibiscus petals can be incorporated into jewelry, such as in resin pendants, for their vibrant colors and unique texture.
- Enriching compost: The decomposing parts of the hibiscus plant can contribute to compost, providing nutrients and organic matter for soil enrichment.
- Cooking oil: Some varieties of hibiscus seed are high in oil, which can be extracted and used for cooking.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Hibiscus is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Hibiscus is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Beauty: The Hibiscus flower is often associated with beauty and perfection, which makes it the perfect emblem for a flawless beauty or to compliment someone's attractive appearance.
- Femininity: With its delicate and often large, showy petals, the Hibiscus symbolizes feminine energy and is sometimes linked to womanhood or female empowerment.
- Fame and Glory: In some cultures, Hibiscus represents fame, success, or glory due to its eye-catching presence and widespread appeal.
- Hospitality: Because Hibiscus flowers are frequently seen and used in welcoming decorations in tropical regions, they symbolize hospitality and a friendly welcome.
- Delicate Beauty: Despite its bold appearance, the Hibiscus flower is fragile and has a short lifespan, representing delicate beauty that must be appreciated quickly.
WaterTropical Hibiscus, commonly known as Hibiscus 'Tosca', should be watered thoroughly when the top inch of the soil becomes dry to the touch. This typically means watering once every few days, but the frequency can vary depending on climate and environment. When watering, it's important to use room temperature water and to soak the soil until water runs out of the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. This ensures the root system receives adequate moisture. On average, Hibiscus 'Tosca' may need about 1 gallon of water per week, but this can change with temperature and humidity levels.
LightTropical Hibiscus thrives in bright, indirect light or partial sunlight. The ideal spot for Hibiscus 'Tosca' is a location where it can receive morning sunlight and afternoon shade, as direct afternoon sun can be too intense and may cause leaf scorch. If grown indoors, a south-facing window with some light filtration is suitable.
TemperatureFor Tropical Hibiscus, the ideal temperature range is between 60°F and 85°F. Temperatures below 50°F can harm the plant, while temperatures exceeding 100°F can cause stress. Hibiscus 'Tosca' grows best when nighttime temperatures are slightly cooler than daytime temperatures, but still well above 50°F.
PruningTropical Hibiscus requires pruning to promote bushier growth and more blooms. Prune Hibiscus 'Tosca' in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or weak branches and trim back by about one-third to encourage fresh growth. It's also beneficial to prune after a flowering cycle to shape the plant and prepare it for the next bloom period.
CleaningAs needed
SoilHibiscus, commonly known, requires well-draining soil with good aeration. A good soil mix for Hibiscus 'Tosca' can be made with equal parts peat, perlite, and loam, providing nutrients and proper drainage. The ideal soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingHibiscus should be repotted every 1-2 years or when root-bound. For Hibiscus 'Tosca', repotting is best done in spring or early summer to allow the plant to establish in the growing season.
Humidity & MistingHibiscus plants thrive in higher humidity levels, ideally between 50-60%. For Hibiscus 'Tosca', maintaining a consistent humidity level in this range will support its lush foliage and vibrant blooms.
Suitable locationsIndoor
For Hibiscus 'Tosca', place in bright, indirect light; ensure high humidity and warm temps.
Outdoor
Plant Hibiscus 'Tosca' in full sun, protect from cold, ensure moist, well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleHibiscus 'Tosca', also known as Rose Mallow, begins its life cycle as a seed that germinates in warm, moist soil, developing into a seedling with embryonic leaves. As it grows, the plant develops true leaves and a sturdy stem, entering a vegetative stage where it focuses on growth and photosynthesis. The hibiscus then enters a flowering stage, characterized by the development of large, colorful flowers that attract pollinators for reproduction. After pollination, the flowers develop into seed pods, which eventually dry and release seeds, completing the reproductive cycle. In temperate regions, the hibiscus may enter a period of dormancy during colder months, conserving energy until conditions become favorable for growth again. The plant can live several years, going through multiple flowering cycles, before eventually reaching the end of its lifespan.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The Hibiscus 'Tosca', commonly known as the Tosca Rose of Sharon, is typically propagated during the late winter to early spring period, before the onset of new growth. The most popular method is softwood cuttings. To do this, select a healthy branch and make a cutting approximately 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long, ensuring there are at least two nodes present. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting to prevent moisture loss. Dip the cut end into a rooting hormone to encourage growth, then place the cutting in a pot with well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and place the pot in a warm area with indirect sunlight. Roots usually develop within a few weeks, after which the new Hibiscus 'Tosca' can be transplanted to a larger pot or directly into the garden.
