The difference between hibiscus and tropical hibiscus lies in their ability to withstand varying temperatures and mood . As a gardening and landscape gardening expert , I have come across both types of hibiscus in my experience , and I can provide a detailed account of their distinction .
1 . Temperature Tolerance : One of the cardinal difference between hibiscus and tropical hibiscus is their temperature leeway . Hibiscus , also known as hardy hibiscus , is able to withstand subfreezing temperatures and endure harsh northern winters . This arrive at it desirable for growing in cold climates where winter temperatures dismiss below freezing . On the other hand , tropic hibiscus is not hardy below geographical zone 9 . It is unable to withstand extend dusty exposure and can not endure temperature below freezing . This makes it more suitable for warmer clime where freezing temperature are not a worry .
2 . Climate Adaptability : The adaptability to different climate is another factor that pose hibiscus and tropic hibiscus apart . dauntless hibiscus is well - fit for growing in a panoptic range of clime , admit temperate realm . It can thrive in both quick and cool climates , piss it versatile for gardener in various parts of the worldly concern . tropic hibiscus , as the name suggests , is comfortably suited for tropic and subtropical climates . It thrives in warm and humid conditions , where it can welcome ample sunlight and heat throughout the year .
3 . Flower Characteristics : While both hibiscus and tropical hibiscus are known for their vibrant and showy flowers , there are subtle differences in their flower characteristics . intrepid hibiscus typically farm larger flowers , often value up to 6 inches in diam . These flowers come in a wide of the mark array of colors , including shades of pink , red , clean , and even bi - slanted multifariousness . Tropical hibiscus , on the other deal , incline to have slightly little flowers , typically measuring around 4 - 5 inches in diameter . They are illustrious for their striking colors and often feature bold and vibrant hues , such as bright ruby , orangish , yellow , and purple .
4 . Growth Habit : In terms of growing riding habit , hibiscus and tropic hibiscus also exhibit some variation . brave hibiscus is a perennial plant life that grows as a bush or small Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree , with woody stems and a shaggy-haired visual aspect . It tends to have a more upright and compact growing habit . Tropical hibiscus , however , is typically grown as a perennial in warmer climates but may be regale as an annual in cooler regions . It has a more straggly and bushy growth riding habit , often with multiple branches that create a full and more voluminous industrial plant .
To tally up , the main distinction between hibiscus and tropic hibiscus lie in their temperature tolerance , adaptability to different clime , blossom characteristic , and growth drug abuse . While hibiscus is sturdy and can defy cold temperature , tropical hibiscus thrives in warmer climate and can not endure freezing temperatures . sympathize these differences can help gardeners choose the appropriate hibiscus salmagundi based on their specific climate and horticulture orientation .
Caroline Bates
