DESCRIPTION

Stephanie is a very impressive variety of hibiscus. The shrub grows up to 2-3 m high and 2.5 m wide. The plant is evergreen and densely covered with dark, glossy leaves. The hibiscus blooms abundantly from May to October, but single flowers also appear throughout the year. Flowers grow on one year old stems , which does not preclude the occurrence of spindle-shaped buds on older branches. Flowers are really impressive - large and white. Composed of petals and their stamen which are gathered in a tube shape. A specific feature of the flowers is that they live only 1-2 days, while immediately after they are replaced with new flowers.

ADVICES

The bush requires light throughout the year, so it is preferable to place in a south facing window. However, during the summer avoid direct sunlight in the hottest part of the day as it can cause the leaves to burn. It is best at this time to cover the window with net. The plant should have a lot of space - so as not to be touched. The hibiscus will not tolerate drafts. The optimal cultivation temperature during growth is 20-25 ° C. In winter, in a rest period sufficient is 15-20 ° C. Fluctuations in temperature by a few degrees between night and day in autumn and especially in the spring, stimulate flowering. At temperatures below 10 ° C the shrub loses its leaves. The humidity should be relatively high throughout the year. The shrub grows well in universal soil, but good quality, and slightly acidic (pH 6). It can also be garden soil with the substrate for geraniums. The best is a mixture of: leaf earth, compost, peat and sand in the ratio 2: 1: 1: 1.


Hibiscus is a plant sensitive to touch (flowers and buds fall when touched). What's more, do not get developed buds or flowers wet. Plants should not be frequently moved. Hibiscus has great water demands. From April to October water the plant at least once every 2-3 days - so that the root ball is constantly moist. During the summer it is advisable to water every day, and in the case of plants that are outdoors water twice a day. In winter water less often, allowing the upper layer of the earth to dry to a depth of 1 cm. The easiest way to adjust watering is observing the leaves - when they start to hang it means that the shrub needs water. Do not allow water to remain in the overflow pot. Fertilize from March to the end of September using organic fertilizers. Due to the strong growth of the plant it should be pruned - ideally in March or April, before growth resumes after the winter period. Then prune last year's growth . Cut above the bud eye or leaf at right angles. When cutting the thickest, woody stems (diameter greater than 50 mm) it is necessary to use gardeners paste.