Perennial
Fairy Hibiscus
Hibiscus poeppigii
Traits
Varieties We Carry
StandardHibiscus poeppigii
Sizes & Pricing
1 galFrom$14.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Mar 11.
LightFull Sun, Part Sun
WaterModerate
Mature size3-6 feet × 2-3 feet
About Fairy Hibiscus
Fairy hibiscus (Hibiscus poeppigii) is a rare Florida native subshrub with small, bright red flowers and a delicate open form. Native to South Florida hammocks and the Caribbean, it is best suited to zones 10–11 and is marginal in NE Florida zone 9b without frost protection; it excels as a specimen in native and tropical-themed gardens where hardy. Starting at $14.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Spring, Summer, Fall
- Flower Color
- Red
- Growth Rate
- Moderate
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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This monthGood windowOther months
Seasonal care
Bloom season. Good planting window.
Bloom season.
Bloom season. Ideal planting window.
Retains foliage through winter. May need protection below 25°F.
Care essentials
Light
Prefers full sun to light shade; native habitat includes open hammocks and disturbed areas. In NE Florida, site in a location with morning sun and some afternoon shade during peak summer heat.
Water
Water moderately and allow soil to partially dry between waterings. Drought-tolerant once established in well-drained sandy soils typical of NE Florida, but benefits from supplemental irrigation during dry periods.
Soil & Fertilizer
Grows in well-drained sandy or loamy soils. Fertilize sparingly with a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring; this Florida native thrives in low-nutrient conditions typical of NE Florida sandy soils.
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Common questions
Is Fairy Hibiscus a good plant for St. Augustine?
Fairy Hibiscus is a perennial for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 3-6 feet × 2-3 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed March 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.