The Rico Suave Hibiscus is a popular choice for gardeners seeking vibrant blooms and relatively easy care. This cultivar can enhance any garden or patio setting.
Understanding Rico Suave Hibiscus
The Rico Suave Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis) is known for its large, ruffled flowers. These blooms feature lemon-yellow petals with bold red and burgundy centers, lasting up to three days.
This tropical plant maintains an upright, bushy habit, reaching 4 to 5 feet tall and 3 to 5 feet wide. Its glossy, dark green foliage remains evergreen in warmer climates. The Rico Suave Hibiscus blooms continuously from late spring until the first frost and attracts hummingbirds.
Rico Suave Hibiscus Care Essentials
Rico Suave Hibiscus thrives in full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for best bloom production. While it can tolerate partial shade in hot climates, too little sun can lead to less vibrant color and reduced blooming.
Consistent watering is important; this hibiscus prefers evenly moist but well-drained soil. Keep the soil moist but never waterlogged, as standing water can lead to root rot. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Rico Suave Hibiscus performs well in any average, well-drained soil, though it appreciates rich, organic-rich mediums. A slightly acidic to neutral soil pH is ideal for strong root development. For container-grown plants, a good quality potting mix is suitable.
Regular fertilization is important for continuous blooms, especially for container plants. It is best to use a balanced fertilizer or one that is low in phosphorus, as excess phosphorus can be harmful to tropical hibiscus, potentially causing yellowing leaves and stunted growth. Some sources suggest fertilizing every two to four weeks during the growing season with a water-soluble fertilizer or a continuous release fertilizer once a year in spring.
This tropical plant prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 65-85°F (18-29°C), and high humidity. Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can stress the plant. If grown indoors during winter, providing a humidifier can help maintain adequate humidity, as dry indoor air can cause flower buds to drop and leaves to yellow.
Pruning and Maintenance
Pruning Rico Suave Hibiscus encourages a bushier growth habit and more abundant blooms. To maintain a compact shape and stimulate new growth, pinch off new growth. Selective pruning, removing individual branches, is preferred.
Prune in early spring as new growth emerges, or in late winter. Deadhead spent flowers to maintain appearance and encourage further blooming. If the plant becomes leggy or too large, trim it back, though pruning may temporarily delay flowering as blooms appear on new wood.
Regular maintenance includes inspecting for pests. In colder climates, bring the plant indoors for winter when temperatures dip below 50°F (10°C). When overwintering indoors, place it in a bright, cool spot and reduce watering, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Common Issues and Solutions
Yellowing leaves on Rico Suave Hibiscus often indicate stress. This can result from either insufficient or excessive watering. Too much or too little sunlight, as well as sudden temperature fluctuations, can also lead to yellowing foliage.
A lack of blooms might be due to insufficient sunlight, improper watering, or nutrient deficiencies. Hibiscus are heavy feeders, so regular fertilization with a balanced, low-phosphorus fertilizer during the growing season is important for continuous flowering. Over-fertilization or the use of “bloom booster” fertilizers high in phosphorus can also inhibit blooming and cause yellow leaves.
Common pests that can affect hibiscus include aphids and spider mites, which can weaken the plant and contribute to yellowing leaves. Inspecting the plant regularly helps in early detection and prompt treatment. Physical damage from transplanting or repotting can also cause stress, leading to yellowing leaves and a temporary halt in blooming.