The Many Colors of Tropical Hibiscus

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Living in semi-tropical central Florida with the hot, humid summer requires tropical plants in the garden. Tropical hibiscus are favorites in my area. I see them planted nearly everywhere. They are planted by the pharmacy drive-through, by the windows at fast food restaurants, by libraries and city hall. Today I’m sharing hibiscus photos from the archives. Let's start with single hibiscus flowers, like the fiesta hibiscus. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 My pink hibiscus was one of the first plants I bought for my garden back in 2016.

 

 

 

 

 I even added one flower to a bouquet I made.

 

 

 

 

 

 

I saw this beauty at a garden center; it's called Snow Queen.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

Double hibiscus have multiple layers of petals with a sort of ruffled appearance.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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First Week in May

 

 

 As I reported last week, the weatherman's predictions for rain were true. Rain came Saturday and was sporadic until Sunday afternoon.  The amount of rain didn't affect the drought conditions much. Not enough rain to make up the inches we have not received in the last 6 months.

 

My red amaryllis has put on a great show in the last week. As the number of flowers increased, I just smiled more.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 I hope you're enjoying May wherever you are.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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End of April at the Condo

  

 

The weather here in central Florida has been hot and dry. We've had little rain for months. Over half of Florida is experiencing "extreme drought". Like Georgia, Florida is dealing with widespread wildfires around the state. Scientists warn the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season could be the most dangerous in history.

 

 

 

 There is a prediction of rain this weekend on today's weather report. I say "from your mouth to God's ear, please".  That's enough bad news. You know I'm an optimist, so let's look at my blue views and my potted red/white amaryllis blooms here at the condo. 

 

 Note:  Amaryllis thrive in Florida, blooming in spring (typically April) with minimal care. Plant bulbs in well-drained soil with the top third above ground in partial to full sun. They are, for the most part, easy to care for, notes South Florida Plant Guide. Protect them from frost, water sparingly to avoid rot, and fertilize in summer to ensure reblooming

 

 

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April Gardenias in Lakeland, Florida

 

Gardenia bushes typically thrive in USDA Growing Zones 8–11, requiring warm, humid climates, though some cold-hardy varieties like 'Frostproof' and 'Kleim's Hardy' can withstand Zone 7 winters. They prefer full sun to partial shade, acidic soil, and consistent moisture. In zones 6 or lower, they must be grown in containers and brought indoors. 

 

The gardenia bush in the garden in the center of my condo building has been blooming for the last five days.  It is so wonderful to open my front door and step out on the 2nd floor walkway with a view of flowers. It really makes your day.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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