Hibiscus mutabilis, commonly called Cotton Rose, is a woody, large-growing, tree-like shrub with light green, hand-sized, rough-textured, serrated leaves. that has enjoyed immense popularity throughout the South for most of the 20th Century. It is unique, interesting, and steeped in history and Southern Folklore. The plant is native to ancient China, and likely made its way to America through the same oriental trade routes that brought us many other wonderful and exotic things.
Though commonly called a rose, this interesting bush is actually a type of hibiscus and is distantly related to the cotton plant. The botanical name means changeable and refers to the unique and interesting variations of color in the large rose-like flowers.
Big double blooms are born on an upright, open, multi-trunked bush, and begin to appear in late Summer to early Fall. The flowers begin pure white and end as a deep rose red, often within the same day. The bloom season is long, lasting until the nights cool and plants enter dormancy, so there are generally flowers of different shades and hues present at the same time.
Care: When mature, plant in fertile, well-draining soil or potting media in full sun. Water as needed to maintain consistent soil moisture, but avoid overwatering. Overly saturated plants become spotted, weak, thin, and fail to flower as expected. Feed a good quality, slow-release, bloom-boosting fertilizer initially and repeat annually in spring. Prune after flowering to control size and shape. Avoid pruning during winter dormancy.
Indoor Growing: This is a semi-tropical plant that grows large, requires the full spectrum of light 6 to 8 hours daily, high humidity, and warm temperatures with at least 10°F day/night differential, and a period of moderate chilling during winter dormancy to produce flowers, so it is not well-suited for the average indoor growing space.
Climate: Hibiscus mutabilis is a semi-tropical plant. It is recommended for USDA Zones 8*, 9, 10, 11 (*Generally considered root hardy in Zone 8B when well established.) Note that Zone recommendations are based on average temperatures and do not consider other variables. Cold protection is recommended until plants become well established.
Condition: One (1) well-rooted, starter-size plant with an approximate 4-inch-diameter root zone. Plant will be a minimum of about
t 6 to 12 inches tall and have no blooms or buds on arrival.
*Limited Conditional Warranty: Plants are guaranteed to arrive alive and in good and viable condition. The warranty is conditioned on the Seller receiving prompt notice, within 24 hours of delivery, of any questions or concerns about the plant\'s condition. Notice must include photo validation. No other additional, extended, or long-term Warranty is expressed or implied.
- Brand: Emerald Goddess Gardens
- Common Name: Cotton Rose
- Bloom Form: Double
- Mature Size: 6 -8 feet
- Fragrance: None
- Suggested Uses: Accent, Boundary, Large Garden Pot
- House Plant Adapative: No
- Country of Origin: USA
- Limited Conditional Warranty: Healthy Arrival
- Extended Long Term Warranty: None
- Manufacturer:Emerald Goddess Gardens TM
- Climate: Semi-Tropical
- Color: Pink
- Special Features: Showy easy to grow
- Species: Hibiscus mutablis
- Sunlight: Full sun to light shade
- USDA Hardiness Zone: 8, 9, 10
- Watering: Moderate