Hibiscus liliflorus



Hibiscus liliflorus


Hibiscus liliflorus

Hibiscus liliflorus is one of the species plants that are the ancestors of the fancy hibiscus hybrids of today. H. liliflorus was native to the Mascarene Islands, off the coast of Africa, and is likely the original ancestor of today's pink single hibiscus varieties. Almost extinct in the wild due to introduced plant diseases and pests, lack of pollinators, interbreeding with introduced species, and loss of habitat, H. liliflorus still survives and thrives in botanical gardens and private collections. For the home grower H. liliflorus is a satisfying plant to grow. It blooms freely all through the growing season with bright pink 3-5" mini flowers. The bush tends to be tall and slender, 6-10' tall, and responds well to pruning by shooting out many branches.