Erin Rachel tropical hibiscus features hot neon orange flowers that blend into vibrant pink with a rich magenta center on an evergreen shrub that can reach up to 12' in height. For best flower production, grow in full sun and provide moderate fertilization and irrigation during periods of drought. Large containers can be overwintered indoors successfully in low light conditions in the Chicago region but benefit from a hard pruning before they are moved outdoors (after danger of last frost). Prone to whiteflies and aphids which are often controlled by a strong spray of water. When outdoors, natural predators like lace wings and lady bug beetles usually keep white fly and aphid infestations under control.

A native of central China, this is one of the most widely used ornamental shrubs in subtropical and tropical gardens around the world. In China, a number of pharmacological uses of the plant are practiced. In some cultures the flowers are eaten, and in others the flowers are used to shine shoes!