Abelmoschus manihot (Sunset Hibiscus) is a fast-growing perennial native to tropical Asia and the western Pacific region and grown for its large yellow flowers, bold foliage, and long summer bloom season. A member of the mallow family (Malvaceae), it is widely cultivated throughout the tropics as both an ornamental and food crop, though El Nativo Growers produces this species only as an ornamental landscape plant.
Habit & Size: Forms a robust herbaceous perennial or subshrub typically 4–8 feet tall and 3–6 feet wide, depending on growing conditions. Large, deeply lobed green leaves create a coarse texture in the landscape. From summer through fall, plants produce abundant pale yellow flowers with dark maroon centers, often 4–6 inches across. Individual flowers last a single day but are produced continuously over an extended bloom period. The flowers attract bees and other pollinators.
Cultural Requirements: Performs best in full sun and fertile, well-drained soils. Benefits from moderate irrigation during active growth and flowering. Well suited to Southern California gardens, particularly in coastal and inland valley locations where summer warmth promotes vigorous growth. Plants may be damaged by frost and often become dormant or partially dormant during winter in colder areas. For best appearance and vigorous spring regrowth, cut plants back to the ground during the winter dormant or semi-dormant period before new growth begins.
Landscape Uses: An excellent choice for tropical gardens, mixed perennial borders, large containers, and seasonal accent plantings. Useful as a background plant, screening perennial, or bold foliage specimen where large flowers and coarse texture are desired.
Identification Note: Distinguished by its large lobed leaves and showy pale yellow flowers with dark maroon centers.
Pests and Cultural Considerations: Generally easy to grow when provided warmth and adequate moisture. Aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites may occasionally occur, particularly during periods of heat or drought stress. Plants typically resprout vigorously from the base in spring following winter dormancy. Best performance is achieved with full sun, fertile soil, and moderate irrigation during the growing season.
- Common Name:
- Aibika
- Mature Height:
- 4-6'
- Mature Spread:
- 3-4'
- Exposure:
- Sun
- Growth:
- Deciduous
- Flower Color:
- Pale Yellow
- Soil:
- Well drained best
- Foliage Color:
- Dark Green
- Flower Time:
- Summer - Fall
