Sleepy Hibiscus, Mexican Turk's Cap

Scientific Name: Malvaviscus drummondii Torr. & A. Gray
Synonym: Hibiscus drummondii, Malvaviscus arboreus var. drummondii , Pavonia drummondii
Family: Malvaceae

Recommended Temperature Zone:
USDA: Shrub in zone 9b-10, freeze-the ground in zone 8 or annual

Frost Tolerance: Tender, but grows back in the spring if frozen to the ground

Heat Tolerance: Do better with afternoon shade

Sun Exposure: Light shade (full sun in cooler climates)

Origin: Southern Mexico, Central America

Growth Habits: Evergreen shrub to 9 feet

Watering Needs: Regular water. Keep the soil moist.

Propagation: Mound layering, cuttings

This shrub looks much like a hibiscus which flowers are ready to open. In fact, the flowers never open much, hence the common name of 'Sleepy Hibiscus'. It still blooms often, and the flowers attract humminbirds.

Culture:
Check for mealy bugs. Little feeding is needed, although some 10-30-10 is useful at planting time. Mulch in summer.