From tropical Asia, this is one of the few flowering plants that really enjoys a sunny windowsill. Known as Rose of China or Chinese hibiscus, it is a long-lived shrub, even indoors, and with care will last up to 20 years.
The leaves are large and glossy, but the main attraction is the profusion of 4—5 in. (10—12 cm) flowers, produced mainly in spring and summer, although more can appear throughout the year if the plant is growing well. They vary in color, but are chiefly mid- to deep red with a long, prominent, central column.
Size: Height 6 ½ ft- (2 m).
Light: Direct sunlight, except noon in summer.
Temperature: Normal room; winter minimum 55°F (12°C).
Moisture: Keep moist from spring to fall. In winter, apply only enough water to prevent the soil mix from drying out.
Feeding: Give high potash liquid fertilizer (tomato fertilizer) every two weeks from spring to summer, once a. month in fall.
Propagation: Take 4 in. (10 cm) tip or heel cuttings in spring.
Special needs: If it begins to outgrow its position, it can be pruned hard in early spring.