If you love the bold, tropical look of hibiscus but want to try something different, you’re in the right place. Many other flowers that look like hibiscus can bring that same vibrant energy to your garden. These blooms share the classic trumpet shape, large petals, and often stunning colors that make hibiscus so beloved. Let’s look at some fantastic alternatives that can give your space a lush, exotic feel.
Flowers That Look Like Hibiscus
This group of plants often surprises people with their similar appearance. They typically feature large, showy flowers with a prominent central stamen. While they may not be true hibiscus, they offer comparable beauty and sometimes even easier care. Knowing these look-alikes expands your options for creating a tropical paradise, no matter where you live.
Rose of Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus)
This one is a bit of a trick, because it actually is a hibiscus. Rose of Sharon is a hardy, deciduous shrub that thrives in cooler climates where tropical hibiscus would perish. Its flowers are slightly smaller but come in a beautiful array of colors like pink, white, and purple. It’s a fantastic way to get the hibiscus look in temperate gardens.
- Hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
- Blooms from late summer into fall.
- Prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
Hardy Hibiscus (Hibiscus moscheutos)
Another true hibiscus, this perennial is known for its enormous, dinner-plate-sized flowers. While it dies back to the ground in winter, it returns with vigor each spring. The blooms are incredibly vibrant and last for just a day or two, but the plant produces many over a long season.
- Also called swamp mallow or rose mallow.
- Thrives in moist soil and full sun.
- Flowers can reach up to 12 inches across.
Chinese Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis)
This is the classic tropical hibiscus you often see in glossy magazines. It’s the standard by which many look-alikes are measured. It’s typically grown as a patio plant in cooler areas, as it cannot tolerate frost. Its glossy leaves and continuous blooms make it a favorite.
For the best results, you need to bring it indoors before the first frost hits. They can be a bit fussy about changes in light and humidity, so a gradual transition is key.
Caring for Your Tropical Look-Alikes
Most plants that resemble hibiscus share similar needs. They generally crave plenty of sunlight and warmth to produce those spectacular flowers. Well-draining soil is essential to prevent root rot, especially for container plants. A regular feeding schedule with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season will support constant blooming.
Don’t forget to water consistently, but allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering is a common mistake that can lead to leaf drop and fewer flowers.
Mallow Family Relatives
The Malvaceae, or mallow family, is where hibiscus calls home. Many of its cousins share that familiar floral structure. This family connection explains why so many of these plants appear similar. They often have those signature overlapping petals and a column of fused stamens in the center.
Turk’s Cap (Malvaviscus arboreus)
This unique flower looks like a hibiscus that never fully opened. Its petals twist around a long, protruding stamen, resembling a Turkish turban. It’s a tough, drought-tolerant plant once established and attracts hummingbirds and butterflies like crazy.
- Blooms in shades of red, pink, or white.
- Can tolerate more shade than true hibiscus.
- Great for naturalized or woodland garden areas.
Flowering Maple (Abutilon)
While the leaves resemble maple trees, the hanging, bell-shaped flowers have a definite hibiscus vibe. They come in many colors, including yellow, orange, red, and pink. Abutilon is often grown as a houseplant or in seasonal containers, as it is sensitive to cold.
They can get leggy if not pruned regularly. Pinching back the tips encourages a bushier growth habit and more of those lovely blooms.
Rose Mallow (Lavatera)
This fast-growing annual or perennial produces a profusion of open, funnel-shaped flowers. They look very much like single-form hibiscus blooms on a bushy plant. Lavatera is excellent for filling gaps in the garden quickly and provides a long season of color with minimal fuss.
- Thrives in full sun and poor to average soil.
- Excellent as a cut flower.
- Often blooms from early summer untill the first frost.
Using Look-Alikes in Your Garden Design
These vibrant flowers work wonderfully as focal points in a border. Place them where their large blooms can be appreciated. They also pair beautifully with bold foliage plants like cannas or elephant ears to enhance the tropical theme. In cooler climates, grow the tender varieties in large pots so you can move them to a sheltered spot when weather turns.
Consider their mature size when planting. Some, like the hardy hibiscus, can become quite large and may overshadow smaller plants if not given enough space from the begining.
Desert Rose (Adenium obesum)
With its dramatic, swollen caudex and stunning trumpet flowers, the Desert Rose is a succulent that offers a exotic twist. The blooms are strikingly similar to hibiscus and come in brilliant pinks, reds, and whites. It needs lots of sun and excellent drainage.
Be very careful with watering, especially in winter. It’s far better to underwater this plant than to overdo it, as it stores water in its thick stem.
Hibiscus Trionum (Flower-of-an-Hour)
This charming annual has delicate, creamy-yellow flowers with a dark purple center. Each bloom lasts only a few hours (hence its name), but the plant produces many in succession. It self-seeds readily, often popping up in surprising places around the garden.
Common Garden Look-Alikes
Some common garden favorites also share a passing resemblance. Peonies, especially the single and semi-double forms, can evoke the feel of a hibiscus with their large, layered petals. Certain types of hollyhocks also carry the same vertical habit and large, open flowers that nod to the hibiscus shape.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Yellowing leaves often signal overwatering or poor drainage. Check the soil moisture before reaching for the hose. A lack of flowers usually means the plant isn’t getting enough sunlight. Most of these plants need at least six hours of direct sun to bloom their best.
Watch for pests like aphids and whiteflies, especially on new growth. A strong spray of water or an insecticidal soap usually takes care of minor infestations. If you see buds forming but then dropping off, it could be due to sudden changes in temperature or moisture levels.
Where to Source These Plants
You can find many of these at local nurseries, especially those with a good selection of perennials or tropicals. For more unusual varieties, specialty online retailers are a great resource. Always check the hardiness zone for perennials to ensure they will survive your winters.
- Local plant sales often have unique finds.
- Check botanical garden plant shops.
- Consider starting some from seed for a wider selection.
FAQ
What is the flower that looks most like a hibiscus?
The Rose of Sharon and Hardy Hibiscus are the closest because they are actually in the hibiscus family. For non-hibiscus options, Turk’s Cap and certain Abutilon varieties are remarkably similar.
Are there any perennial flowers similar to hibiscus?
Yes! Hardy Hibiscus (Hibiscus moscheutos) is a true perennial. Rose of Sharon is a hardy perennial shrub. Lavatera can also be a perennial in milder climates.
What tropical looking flowers are not hibiscus?
Many! Consider Cannas, Bird of Paradise, Ginger Lilies, and Plumerias for a tropical aesthetic. They offer bold forms and colors that complement hibiscus-like blooms.
How do I care for plants that resemble hibiscus?
Most need full sun, consistent moisture with good drainage, and regular feeding during their growing season. Protect tender varieties from frost and wind, which can damage their large leaves and flowers.
Adding flowers that look like hibiscus to your garden is a wonderful way to enjoy that tropical style. With so many options, from hardy perennials to exotic succulents, you can find the perfect fit for your climate and garden space. Their vibrant blooms are sure to create a stunning display that lasts for months.