Hibiscus rosa-sinensis 'Eos' Ø13cm

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis 'Eos' is the Chinese hibiscus with very large single flowers in a vivid red like the sky at sunrise, with a throat one shade deeper and a long red column dusted at the tip with yellow anthers. The compact bush, with glossy dark-green leaves, belongs to the new generation of pot hibiscus whose flowers stay open for several days, not just one. It is equally at home on a bright windowsill and, from late May to September, on the balcony, and it is non-toxic to children and pets. Care instructions The hibiscus is a plant of steady rhythm: plenty of light, substrate kept slightly moist and regular feeding in season. Given these without sudden changes, it sets buds in succession from spring to autumn. Light: as much as possible, with 3-4 hours of direct sun a day, in the morning or towards evening; a south, east or west window. On the balcony in summer, shield it from midday sun for the first days, until it adjusts. Temperature: 18-28 °C in the growing season; in winter ideally 15-18 °C, minimum 12 °C. Keep it away from cold draughts and the hot air of a radiator. Water: evenly moist substrate, never soaked. Water when the top 1-2 cm have dried: daily on a summer balcony if needed; every 2-4 days indoors; about once a week in winter. Empty the saucer after 15-20 minutes. Humidity: 40-60% is enough. During the heating season, a tray of damp gravel or a humidifier protects it from spider mites. Substrate: good-quality potting compost mixed with 20-30% perlite or pumice, slightly acidic (pH 6-6.5). Repot in spring every 1-2 years into a pot only 2-3 cm wider. Feeding: from March to September, every 1-2 weeks, with a flowering-plant fertiliser rich in potassium and moderate in nitrogen. In winter, once a month at most. Propagation: for your own collection, from semi-ripe cuttings of 8-12 cm, without buds, taken in late spring or summer; set them in airy, moist substrate at 22-25 °C under a clear cover, and they root in 4-8 weeks. Specifications Pot diameter: 13 cm Total height (including pot): 27-37 cm Flowering stage: With or without flowers Note: the plant may be shipped in flower, in bud or without flowers, depending on the season and its growth stage at the time of dispatch. Photos are for illustration only.