Cotton rose (Hibiscus mutabilis)
Care, watering, light and tips for Cotton rose on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Malvaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Cotton rose
Hibiscus mutabilis, also known as Confederate Rose, is a deciduous shrub or small tree notable for its color-changing flowers, which open white or pale pink and deepen to a rich pink or crimson red throughout the day. Its abundant blooming and color contrast make it ideal for tropical and subtropical gardens, as a specimen plant or in groups.
Native range
China and Taiwan
Care tips
It requires full sun for optimal flowering, although it tolerates some partial shade in very hot climates. Watering should be regular and abundant, especially during flowering, keeping the substrate consistently moist but not waterlogged. It prefers rich, well-drained, and slightly acidic soils. A common mistake is insufficient watering, which can lead to bud drop.
How to save a dying Cotton rose
- Warning signs
- Yellowing or sudden leaf drop, flower buds failing to open or falling off, stunted growth.
- First aid
- Check watering (moist but not soggy soil), place it in direct sunlight with good air circulation. Remove dry or diseased leaves and branches.
- What kills it
- Lack of direct sunlight, insufficient or excessive watering (especially with poor drainage), excessively low temperatures or frost.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly. It's a resilient plant. Ensure sun, proper watering, and frost protection.