PHOTO PROVIDED A white hot hibiscus blossom.

The tropical hibiscus is one of the most recognizable and familiar of all tropical flowers. A member of the Malvaceae or mallow family (the word hibiscus comes from the Greek word Hibiskos meaning mallow), the tropical hibiscus is related to the rose-of-sharon, the hardy hibiscus grown in northern areas; okra; cotton; and hollyhock. Tropical hibiscus originated in Asia and the Pacific islands and is the national flower of Malaysia; a native species of hibiscus is the state flower for Hawaii.

Hibiscus varieties are available in thousands of colors and combinations of colors, and blossoms range from 2 inches in diameter to 10 inches or even 12 inches! Flowers are short-lived and symbolize youthful or delicate beauty or perfection; in China the hibiscus is associated with wealth, glory or fame.

We are fortunate to live in a semi-tropical climate which is perfect for cultivating hibiscus. Hibiscus are generally easy to grow in Southwest Florida, and reward the gardener with beautiful blooms virtually year round. There are, however, some basic guidelines that will help you attain success with hibiscus in your garden.

n Where should I plant hibiscus? You can grow hibiscus in your garden beds or in pots; wherever you decide to plant your hibiscus, well-drained soil with organic materials is essential.

n What factors affect hibiscus performance? To ensure optimal performance of your hibiscus plants, sun, heat and water need to be properly balanced:

Sun: Hibiscus can thrive in full sun and need at least 2 hours per day of direct sunlight to stimulate blooming. If you plant your hibiscus in pots, you can move them around in the garden to a less sunny location during the warmer weather, and back into more full sun when temperatures cool.

Heat: Heat will also influence blooming; during the hot summer months, flower production will diminish, and plants may drop buds before they can bloom. The balance of sun and heat will affect your hibiscus; during times of higher temperatures, your plants will need less sun. Since our climate is both hot and humid, a partly shaded location is often ideal for the hibiscus; one of the advantages of planting in pots is that you can experiment with locations in your garden to see where the plant is happiest.

Water: In hot weather, hibiscus require a steady and abundant supply of water; however, pots should never stand in saucers full of water. If hibiscus plants do not have enough water, they will develop droopy leaves; the solution is easy — just add water! During the cooler winter months overwatering can encourage the development of fungus diseases, so it is best to water less often.

n Feeding: Hibiscus need regular feeding to provide the nutrients necessary for beautiful blooms. Look for fertilizers with lots of potassium, small amounts of phosphorous and medium amounts of nitrogen: 17-5-24 is a good target. There are a number of fertilizers available that are specific to hibiscus plants – always remember to read and follow directions.

n Pest Control: Many pest problems can be solved by spraying your plants with a water hose. There are many safe treatments for specific pest problems and your local nursery can advise you on the best options available.

n Prunning: A hibiscus shrub can grow up to 15 feet, but regular pruning will stimulate branching and flower production since hibiscus form buds at the end of each branch. In Southwest Florida, fall is a great time to prune since it stimulates root development and will encourage strong blooms in spring and summer.

The James E. Hendry Chapter of the American Hibiscus Society is located in Fort Myers; its web site provides information on local events and annual sales of exotic tropical hibiscus: www.hendrychapterhibiscus.com. Hidden Valley Hibiscus is an excellent resource for growing and caring for hibiscus, supplies and even exotic hibiscus plants: www.hiddenvalleyhibiscus.com

Adding hibiscus to your gardens will reward you with beautiful blossoms and give your home a vibrant tropical flair. Once you discover the many unique varieties available you just might find yourself addicted to these flashy beauties!

Cathy Dunn is a Florida Master Gardener and member of the Garden Club of Cape Coral.