The Story
Plant Bio
Hibiscus paramutabilis 'Shanghai Red Eye' is a deciduous shrub known for its large, showy, trumpet-shaped flowers with striking red centers and dark green, lobed foliage, creating a vibrant display in summer.
This cultivar is distinguished by its bold red eye at the center of its flowers, enhancing its ornamental appeal and making it a standout choice for colorful garden borders or focal points.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
72 inches
Width
60 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Prefers moderate to high humidity
Lifespan
Perennial in suitable zones
Native To
Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic to pets
Bloom period
Mid-summer – Late summer
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck young plants into well-prepared soil in spring.
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer every 6 weeks during growing season.
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
- Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Protect from harsh winter winds in colder zones.
Pro Tip
Ensure well-drained soil and full sun for best blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
- Prune to shape after flowering
- Use organic fertilizer in spring
Don't
- Overwater, causing root rot ❌
- Neglect pruning, leading to leggy growth
- Allow soil to dry out completely between watering
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Shanghai Red Eye Hibiscus questions
What zones can Shanghai Red Eye Hibiscus grow in?
Shanghai Red Eye Hibiscus is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Shanghai Red Eye Hibiscus deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Shanghai Red Eye Hibiscus, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Shanghai Red Eye Hibiscus bloom?
Shanghai Red Eye Hibiscus typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Shanghai Red Eye Hibiscus need full sun?
Shanghai Red Eye Hibiscus does best in full sun (6+ hours).
More Hibiscus to compare
Midnight Marvel Swamp Hibiscus
Hibiscus moscheutos 'Midnight Marvel'
Rose of Sharon Hibiscus
Hibiscus syriacus 'Azurri Blue Satin'
Blue Chiffon Rose of Sharon
Hibiscus syriacus 'Blue Chiffon'
Confederate Rose
Hibiscus paramutabilis
Pink Chiffon Rose of Sharon
Hibiscus syriacus 'Pink Chiffon'
White Chiffon Hibiscus
Hibiscus syriacus 'White Chiffon'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Shanghai Red Eye Hibiscus with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.