The Parts of a China Rose Flower

China rose is not a true rose but a hibiscus species that's a perennial only in warm climates. The China rose hibiscus (​Hibiscus rosa-sinensis​, USDA zones 9-11) has gorgeous, exotic-looking blossoms, which are its most ornamental feature. In bright shades of red, orange or yellow, they will light up the garden.

This evergreen, thought to be native to tropical Asia, is a tropical hibiscus and cannot tolerate frost. In cooler climates, the China rose can be grown as a container plant that is brought indoors during the winter. It also makes a lovely year-round houseplant.

The China rose hibiscus plant's primary claim to fame is its flowers. The shrub produces absolutely stunning blossoms that are up to 8 inches in diameter. Each funnel-shaped blossom has five papery petals in white or brilliant shades of red, orange or yellow. A long, conspicuous column of stamens grows in a showy central tube.

Although each flower usually lives for only one day, the plant keeps producing more, to the delight of hummingbirds and butterflies. Once a flower is done blooming, it closes up and drops from the plant. The shell-like structure supporting the bloom will also dry up and fall to the ground within just a few days of the time the flower fades.

These perennial plants grow attractive foliage as well. Their leaves are toothed and shiny green, growing to 6 inches long. Plants grown outdoors year-round can become large shrubs that are up to 12 feet tall and 8 feet wide, although it will take them a few years to achieve this mature height. Container plants grow to about half that height and width.

Those in the warmest climates of USDA zones 9 through 11 can plant China rose hibiscus outdoors, where the shrubs flower year-round. That makes them exceptional ornamental hedges, but China rose shrubs can also be trained into tree form by pruning out all upright stems but one and removing lower leaves as the plant grows. Plants brought indoors for the cold seasons usually only flower from spring to late summer.

In cooler zones, the plants must be grown in large containers and brought indoors before the first winter frost. Use wheeled caddies to make this easier. China rose also works very well as a houseplant that is placed in front of a sunny window or in a sunroom. In some cultures, the plant is used medicinally. Cooks are also fans of hibiscus flowers, which have a tart, cranberrylike flavor and can be used to flavor sauces.

If you want to grow China rose hibiscus, think of the sun. Plants flower best when they get six or more hours of sun a day. Even hibiscus houseplants should be placed where they get several hours of sun. If your area is windy, find a sunny spot that is somewhat sheltered from the breeze. Container plants require regular pruning to keep them from getting leggy. Use a clean garden clipper with a sharp blade.

The plants should be grown on moist, organically rich, well-draining soil. Give China rose hibiscus ample irrigation since they like consistent moisture and high humidity. It is advisable to keep the roots moist at all times without letting the soil become soggy. Mist indoor plants regularly. It also helps to place a container hibiscus on a saucer of wet pebbles to increase humidity.