Hibiscus Mutabilis
Hibiscus mutabilis L.
Hibiscus mutabilis is a remarkable flowering shrub famous for its color-changing blooms that open white in the morning and turn pink to deep red by evening. Native to China, it has been cultivated for nearly 3000 years.
Malvaceae (Mallow family)
Late summer through fall (July-November), lasting 180+ days
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: king proteas and protea pincushions also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
In China, Hibiscus mutabilis has been cultivated for nearly 3,000 years and is celebrated for its unique color-changing ability. Despite its common name "Confederate Rose," it is not native to the American South but was introduced there and became a passalong plant. The daily color transformation from white to pink to red symbolizes the passage of time and life stages. In Buddhist traditions, it is considered sacred and planted near pagodas.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade (6+ hours of sunlight for best flowering)
Water
Moderate; consistent moisture during growing season; avoid waterlogging
Soil
Well-drained, Loamy, Humus-rich, Tolerates various soil conditions
Expert Growing Tips
Prune in late fall or early spring in colder zones as it behaves as an herbaceous perennial
Mulch heavily in winter for root protection in zones 7-8
Propagates easily from cuttings taken in spring
May behave as deciduous shrub in coastal warmer areas with less dieback
Temperature affects color change rate; cooler temperatures slow the color transition
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Specimen plant in mixed borders
- Shrub borders and hedges
- Pollinator gardens (attracts butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees)
- Late-season color in fall gardens
- Container growing in cooler zones
Traditional Uses
- Used in traditional Chinese medicine for various ailments
- Flowers contain antioxidants (anthocyanins increase as color changes)
- Leaves and bark used in traditional remedies in Southeast Asia
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Hibiscus Mutabilis
Why does hibiscus mutabilis change color?
Hibiscus mutabilis changes color due to increasing anthocyanin content in the petals throughout the day. Temperature and light exposure trigger this transformation from white to pink to red.
Is hibiscus mutabilis perennial?
Yes, Hibiscus mutabilis is perennial in zones 7-9. In colder zones it dies back to the ground in winter and regrows from the roots in spring, behaving like an herbaceous perennial.
How long do hibiscus mutabilis flowers last?
Individual flowers last only one day, changing from white to pink to red. However, the blooming season is long, lasting from late summer through fall with continuous new blooms.
Is hibiscus mutabilis native to the American South?
No, despite the name "Confederate Rose," Hibiscus mutabilis is native to China and Taiwan. It was introduced to the American South where it became popular and naturalized.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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