Tropical hibiscus 'Chocolate imp'

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis

How to grow Tropical hibiscus 'Chocolate imp'

  • Full Sun

  • Medium

Tropical hibiscus are highly sensitive to phosphorus (the middle “P” number on fertilizers) and an excessive amount will kill the plant. Do not use so-called “bloom fertilizers” on them. Instead tropical hibiscus need a lot of potash to bloom properly (the last number or “K” on fertilizers). Palm fertilizers are widely available and usually have the proper ratio of a medium-low-high NPK ratio along with needed minors.

The pesticide malathion will defoliate tropical hibiscus. Do not use it for pest control.

Try to plant in a location that enjoys full sun and remember to water moderately. Keep in mind when planting that Chocolate imp is thought of as tender, so it is really important to plant out well after your last frost date.

Growing Chocolate imp from seed

Transplanting Chocolate imp

Ensure that temperatures are mild and all chance of frost has passed before planting out, as Chocolate imp is a tender plant.

Harvesting Chocolate imp

Footnotes