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Red Hot Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis 'Red Hot') growing in South Florida
Grade Florida #1

Red Hot Hibiscus — South Florida Plant Guide

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis 'Red Hot'

Family: Malvaceae · Shrub

Legal status pending editorial verification. Confirm with your county before installation.

Landscape Uses

specimen floweringfoundation plantingtropical gardencontainer

Style Tags

tropicalresortcolorfulbold

South Florida Growing Guide

Light Requirements

Full Sun

Water Requirements

Moderate4/10

Water deeply 2–3 times per week during establishment, then reduce to weekly once roots are established.

Regular water 3x per week dry season.

Soil and Fertilization

sandylimestoneloam

Fertilizer: Monthly balanced fertilizer with micronutrients. Heavy feeder.

Schedule: Monthly balanced fertilizer Feb-Oct.

Salt Tolerance

Moderate (4/10) — some protection from direct spray recommended
Mature Height
48 ft
Mature Width
46 ft
Growth Rate
fast
Water Demand
4/10
Florida Grade
Florida #1
Installed Cost
$$
USDA Zones
9b, 10a, 10b, 11
FLEPPC Status
None
Iguana Rating
4/10

Where to Buy in South Florida

Find Red Hot Hibiscus at South Florida nurseries — check availability and pricing at nurseries near you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast does Red Hot Hibiscus grow in South Florida?

Red Hot Hibiscus has a fast growth rate. In South Florida's warm, humid climate it typically establishes quickly with proper watering and fertilization.

Is Red Hot Hibiscus safe for pets?

Red Hot Hibiscus is not safe for pets. Mild ASPCA listing. Disclose to pet owners.

How much water does Red Hot Hibiscus need in South Florida?

Moderate water needs (4/10). Water deeply 2–3 times per week during establishment, then reduce to weekly once roots are established.

Can Red Hot Hibiscus tolerate salt air in South Florida?

Red Hot Hibiscus has moderate salt tolerance (4/10). It can handle some coastal exposure but should be protected from direct ocean spray.

Is Red Hot Hibiscus available in Miami-Dade County?

In Miami-Dade County, Red Hot Hibiscus is classified as: allowed. Allowed.

County Availability in South Florida

Miami-Dade County

Allowed

Allowed..

USDA Zone 10a–11. Tropical climate, year-round warmth and humidity.

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Broward County

Allowed

Allowed..

USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical with warm winters and wet/dry seasons.

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Palm Beach County

Allowed

Allowed. Cold sensitive.

USDA Zone 9b–10b. Transitional zone with occasional winter cold in north.

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Collier County

Allowed

Allowed..

USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical Gulf Coast with seasonal flooding.

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Monroe County

Allowed

Allowed..

USDA Zone 11. Tropical maritime, highest salt exposure of all 5 counties.

View County Guide →

Full ordinance references and permit requirements available to Professional subscribers. Always verify current county requirements before installation.

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Ask about Red Hot Hibiscus

Get answers grounded in UF/IFAS research and South Florida landscape data.