| Botanical Name | Hibiscus rosa-sinensis 'Dark Heart' |
| Description | 'Dark Heart' is a standout in the Houston metro area for its incredible color depth and glossy, deep green foliage. The contrast between the saturated red petals and the dark, velvety center makes it a premier choice for focal points in the garden. While it loves the humidity of the Gulf Coast, it is a tropical plant and requires well-drained soil to avoid root issues. It is best grown in containers that can be moved to a protected area during the winter, as it is highly sensitive to frost and will not survive a freeze in Southeast Texas. |
| Exposure | Full Sun (Essential for heavy blooming and deep color saturation) |
| Height x Width | 3-5 ft. Tall x 2-3 ft. Wide |
| Water | Medium to High; requires regular watering. Do not allow the soil to dry out completely during the peak of summer. |
| Zones | 10 - 11 (Must be protected from all freezing temperatures) |
| Fertilization | Feed every 2 weeks with a water-soluble hibiscus fertilizer to support continuous, large blooms. |
| Pruning | Lightly prune in spring to encourage a bushy habit and fresh flower-bearing wood. |
| Deer Resistance | Low |
| Botanical Name | Hibiscus rosa-sinensis 'Dark Heart' |
| Description | 'Dark Heart' is a standout in the Houston metro area for its incredible color depth and glossy, deep green foliage. The contrast between the saturated red petals and the dark, velvety center makes it a premier choice for focal points in the garden. While it loves the humidity of the Gulf Coast, it is a tropical plant and requires well-drained soil to avoid root issues. It is best grown in containers that can be moved to a protected area during the winter, as it is highly sensitive to frost and will not survive a freeze in Southeast Texas. |
| Exposure | Full Sun (Essential for heavy blooming and deep color saturation) |
| Height x Width | 3-5 ft. Tall x 2-3 ft. Wide |
| Water | Medium to High; requires regular watering. Do not allow the soil to dry out completely during the peak of summer. |
| Zones | 10 - 11 (Must be protected from all freezing temperatures) |
| Fertilization | Feed every 2 weeks with a water-soluble hibiscus fertilizer to support continuous, large blooms. |
| Pruning | Lightly prune in spring to encourage a bushy habit and fresh flower-bearing wood. |
| Deer Resistance | Low |