Hibiscus tiliaceus 'Rubra'Red Hibiscus

The Hibiscus tiliaceus 'Rubra', commonly known as Red Hibiscus, is a fast-growing evergreen tree or large shrub admired for its striking reddish-bronze foliage and large, yellow flowers with deep red centers. This tropical species thrives in coastal and subtropical areas, making it a popular choice for hedges, windbreaks, or as a specimen tree. Growing up to 4–10 meters tall and wide, it is highly versatile and well-suited to both formal and naturalistic garden styles.

Specifications

• Height4–10 meters
• Width4–8 meters
• Native toCoastal regions of Asia and the Pacific
• FoliageReddish-bronze heart-shaped leaves; evergreen
• Growth rateFast

Conditions

• SoilPrefers well-drained, fertile soils; tolerates sandy or clay soils
• LightFull sun to partial shade
• WaterModerate; tolerates occasional dryness once established
• ClimateThrives in tropical, subtropical, and coastal regions

Additional Features

• FlowersLarge, yellow blooms with deep red centers; bloom intermittently year-round
• FormUpright growth habit with a dense, spreading canopy
• UsesIdeal for hedges, windbreaks, shade trees, or as feature plants
• SpacingPlant 3–5 meters apart for hedging or as individual trees
• Low MaintenancePrune lightly to maintain shape and remove spent blooms
• Pest ResistanceGenerally pest-resistant; monitor for aphids or caterpillars
• Drought ToleranceModerate; tolerates short dry periods once established
• Salt ToleranceExcellent for coastal gardens; resistant to salt spray
• Wildlife AttractionFlowers attract bees, birds, and butterflies
• Seasonal AppealEvergreen foliage with intermittent, showy blooms year-round
• VersatilityComplements tropical, coastal, and contemporary garden styles

The Red Hibiscus is a vibrant and hardy plant, perfect for adding year-round color and texture to gardens and landscapes. Its bold foliage and striking blooms make it a standout choice for a wide variety of settings.

Project pedigree: This species appears in the palette supplied for Red Sea Global's Shura Island. Read the Shura Island record.

Available Sizes

• Mature height3.5 to 7.0 m
• Canopy spread2.0 to 4.0 m
• Trunk caliper80 to 150 mm

Supplied as advanced, project-grade specimens. Sizes above are the working supply range and are confirmed against your plant schedule. Proven for Middle East coastal projects.