Description
Hibiscus rosa-sinensis | Variegated Hibiscus ‘Aussie Queen’ rooted plant
Variegated Hibiscus, also known as Coopers Hibiscus, Checkered Hibiscus, Hawaiian Hibiscus, Garden Hibiscus, Chinese Hibiscus, China Rose, Fencing Flower, and Shoeblack Plant, is an old type of Hibiscus in the ‘Lilibiscus’ (Tropical Hibiscus) section of the genus that is now making a comeback. Hibiscus rosa-sinensis cultivars are the result of hybridization of ancient and modern Hibiscus varieties from a number of species― the majority being from the Mascarene Islands in the Indian Ocean and the Hawaiian Islands in the Pacific. This complex hybrid group was derived from most if not all of the following species: Hibiscus genevii, Hibiscus kokio, Hibiscus liliiflorus, Hibiscus schizopetalus, Hibiscus arnottianus, Hibiscus fragilis, Hibiscus boryanus, Hibiscus denisonii, and Hibiscus storckii.
Given its genetic history, it is not surprising that Hibiscus rosa-sinensis exhibits a wide array of traits and a dazzling variety of forms and flower colors. There are even a handful of variegated hibiscus plants that are available and widely grown as an ornamentals for their brilliantly-colored foliage of different colors, which adds great texture and interest even when it not in flower. The more sun exposure or direct sunlight, the brighter and more pronounced the variegation will be on these woody shrubs.
The ‘Aussie Queen’ variegated Hibiscus variety is a much more rare and lesser known Tropical Hibiscus cultivar. It’s often confused with the more common one on the market, called ‘Rose Queen’, which more often than not, results in misnamed or mislabeled plants being offered for sale. There is little to no info to be found online as to the origins of this particular Hibiscus cultivar and we 100% have the real deal ‘Aussie Queen’. The difference between ‘Aussie Queen’ and the ‘Rose Queen’ is that ‘Aussie Queen’ has more white leaves, some of which are almost completely white when new. Another distinguishing characteristic is that it doesn’t have an overwhelming amount of bright pink splashes of color on the leaves, but rather has pink coloring around the edges of the leaves, which gives a beautiful glowing effect. ‘Aussie Queen’ Hibiscus grows into a full bush with more of a draping habit than the other types, and grows slower due to the lack of green on the newer leaves.
Well suited for permanent potted culture as an indoor tropical houseplant, or can be grown outdoors as a perennial in zones 10+. Requires ample nutrients, regular moisture, and ample amounts of sunlight.
Outdoor light exposure: Full sun
Indoor light exposure: Direct sunlight/high light
Mature height: 4 ft
Mature width: 3 ft
Hardiness zones: 10-11
Rooted in 4-inch pot [4-8 inches tall]
The plant you will receive will be one of these plants or a similar one.
Please note: We ship plants orders out on Mondays and Tuesdays only.