Airbrush Effect Hibiscus

Light Needs

Partial Shade to Full Sun

(At Least 3 Hours of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

3-4 Feet

Mature Spread

4-5 Feet

Growing Zones

4 to 9

Airbrush Effect Hibiscus is the kind of plant that makes you stop and gasp, with deep pink to salmon tones in flowers that reach at least 8 inches around. “Painted” in the center of each is a deep red center surrounded by overlapping petals that add to the flowers- 3-D appearance. The airbrush name comes from a central white halo in the blossom.

Although the deep green leaves fill a plant that reaches only about 4 feet high and 5 feet around, the plant fills up with flower buds for nearly all-summer bloom. Grow this gorgeous hibiscus where you can enjoy the huge flowers all summer. Unlike tropical hibiscus, this is a native relative (also called Rose Mallow) that is hardy down to the cold of zone 5 and the heat of zone 9. 

Airbrush Effect Hibiscus Care

Plant your Airbrush Effect Hibiscus where it can enjoy at least 6 hours of sun a day. It also helps to remain winter hardy if you plant it near a south-facing wall or a corner that gathers some heat in winter. Plant in spring or fall when there is no danger of frost. The delicate flowers can get damaged by high winds, so consider that when selecting a spot.

Water your hibiscus regularly, up to two times a day if you grow it in a container. As soon as you see new growth emerge from its spot in spring, prune back any old woody stems to about 6 inches high and give it some slow-release plant food. Apply water-soluble fertilizer again in early summer as flower buds begin to form to give it the boost it needs to make its giant flowers. There is no need to remove faded flowers. Before winter, add a layer of mulch around the plant to insulate the ground.

Airbrush Effect Hibiscus Spacing

Give your hibiscus room to shine by not placing other plants any closer than about 3 feet. If you plant several, space them about 4 feet apart for best health.