Hibiscus and Sunlight: How to Get the Exposure Just Right
Hibiscus flowers are stunning plants known for their large, showy flowers that only last for a couple of days. Hibiscus plants are divided into two main types; hardy hibiscus and tropical hibiscus. In this article, we’ll explore the sunlight requirements for hibiscus plants.
Hibiscus Sunlight Requirements
Both hardy and tropical hibiscus have similar sunlight requirements. Depending on the climate, hibiscus plants grow best in full sun or partial shade. Hibiscus plants also need sheltered locations to protect them from strong or cold winds.
Hardy hibiscus grows in USDA Zones 4 to 9 and can survive cold winters. Tropical hibiscus grows in Zones 9 to 12 and cannot tolerate frost or cold temperatures. These temperature requirements slightly affect how much sunlight each type of hibiscus prefers.
In colder areas, hardy hibiscus can be grown in full sun. However, they prefer partial shade in warmer areas. Tropical hibiscus usually grows in hot, humid environments, which is why they prefer partial shade (though they won’t thrive in full shade). This protects tropical hibiscus from intense afternoon sunlight.
East or south-facing aspects are ideal for both types of hibiscus. These aspects provide plenty of morning sunlight while protecting the hibiscus during the afternoon. West-facing aspects are acceptable in colder areas.
The Role of Sunlight in Plant Health and Development
Sunlight is a crucial part of photosynthesis – the process by which plants create fuel for ongoing growth. During photosynthesis, plants absorb sunlight using the green pigment in their leaves, known as chlorophyll. Plants then mix this solar energy with carbon dioxide and water to produce glucose and oxygen.
Glucose is an important sugar that plants use as fuel to manufacture cellulose – the basic building block of plant tissue. These tissues are used to produce strong, healthy stems, leaves, and flower buds. If plants don’t get enough sunlight, they will suffer from stunted growth and may not flower.
Types of Sunlight Explained
Different plants require varying levels of sunlight, which are divided into four main categories. These categories help gardeners get the right amount of sunlight for their plants. The four types of sunlight are:
- Full Sun – Plants that require full sun should get at least six hours of direct sunlight every day. Plants that grow best in full sun are usually drought-tolerant and come from hot, arid environments.
- Partial Sun or Partial Shade – Plants that prefer partial sun or partial shade need between 3 and 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. These plants prefer to get natural, direct sunlight in the morning and shade for the rest of the day. Plants that need partial sun can tolerate slightly more direct sun than those requiring partial shade.
- Full Shade – Plants that grow best in full shade only need a few hours of sunlight daily. These plants usually come from shady rainforest or woodland habitats.
Other Sunlight Considerations
Sunlight changes in intensity throughout the day. Morning sunlight is less intense, while afternoon sun is more intense. As such, most plants prefer to get direct sunlight in the morning. Too much direct afternoon sunlight can burn a plant’s leaves.
To determine where the sun will be throughout the day, gardeners use aspects to arrange plants within their garden. Aspects correspond to the cardinal directions of the compass. East-facing aspects get sunlight early in the morning, while west-facing aspects receive sunlight during the afternoon.
These aspects are crucial to providing the right amount of sunlight to different types of plants. Plants that need full sun should be planted in south or west-facing aspects. Plants that need partial shade or full shade should be planted in east or north-facing aspects, respectively.
Hibiscus Sunlight Requirements FAQs:
Can Hibiscus Get Too Much Sun?
Hibiscus plants can get too much sun. Exposure to too much direct afternoon sunlight can scorch hibiscus leaves, especially in hotter areas. Provide partial shade to protect your hibiscus during the afternoon.
How Much Sun Does a Hibiscus Need?
Most hibiscus needs between 3 and 6 hours of full sun every day, ideally in the morning. In colder areas, hibiscus can tolerate more full sun. In hotter areas, hibiscus needs partial shade during the afternoon.
Can Hibiscus Be in Shade?
Most hibiscus plants grow well in partial shade, especially during hot summer afternoons. However, hibiscus plants don’t grow well in full shade. This leads to stunted growth and a lack of flowers.
What happens if a hibiscus doesn’t get enough sunlight?
If a hibiscus doesn’t get enough sunlight, it may produce fewer flowers, and its growth may be stunted. The leaves may also turn yellow or wilt.
Can hibiscus plants grow indoors?
Yes, hibiscus plants can grow indoors, but they will require a sunny location near a window that receives several hours of direct sunlight each day.
What is the best time of day to water hibiscus plants?
It’s best to water hibiscus plants in the morning, as this allows the leaves to dry off during the day and reduces the risk of fungal diseases.
Wrapping Up
Most hibiscus plants grow best in full sun or partial shade, depending on the climate. Hardy hibiscus grows better in full sun in colder areas. Tropical hibiscus grows best in partial shade in warmer climates.