Tree
Sea Hibiscus
Hibiscus tiliaceus
Varieties We Carry
Soft TouchHibiscus tiliaceus
Sizes & Pricing
3 galFrom$34.95
7 galFrom$69.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Mar 11.
LightFull Sun
WaterModerate
Mature size10-30 feet × 10-20 feet
About Sea Hibiscus
Mahoe (Hibiscus tiliaceus) is a fast-growing, spreading evergreen tree native to pantropical coastal regions, bearing large heart-shaped leaves and yellow hibiscus flowers that deepen to orange-red through the day. It thrives in NE Florida coastal conditions with high salt and wind tolerance. Note: this species is hardy only in USDA zones 10–12 and will likely sustain freeze damage in zone 9b without frost protection; UF/IFAS rates it invasive in Central and South Florida. Starting at $34.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Spring, Summer, Fall
- Flower Color
- Yellow
- Growth Rate
- Fast
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Alkaline, 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.
Bloom season. Retains foliage through winter.
Care essentials
Light
Sea hibiscus performs best in full sun in NE Florida. It tolerates partial shade but flowering is reduced. Site in a wind-sheltered, frost-protected location as it is cold-sensitive at the northern limit of its range.
Water
Moderate water needs; water regularly during establishment. Once mature, sea hibiscus tolerates short dry periods but prefers consistent moisture in NE Florida's sandy soils. Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep rooting.
Soil & Fertilizer
Tolerates sandy, loamy, or alkaline well-drained soils common to NE Florida coastal areas. Feed with a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring and mid-summer to support its fast growth. Avoid waterlogged conditions which can cause root rot.
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Common questions
Is Sea Hibiscus a good plant for St. Augustine?
Sea Hibiscus is a tree for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, with high salt tolerance, reaching 10-30 feet × 10-20 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 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.