How to prune a hibiscus tree video

Pruning is essential to routine hibiscus care—it ensures that the plant produces the large, stunning flowers that make hibiscus one of the most beautiful flowering shrubs you can grow. 

The more than 200 hibiscus species are not all pruned the same way (or at the same time).

Before you reach for your pruners, make sure you know which type of hibiscus you have.

The instructions below cover the pruning methods of three of the most popular hibiscus species: tropical hibiscus, hardy hibiscus, and swamp hibiscus. 

Does Hibiscus Need Pruning?

For the best bloom, hibiscus should be pruned regularly. It stimulates branching and creates a fuller bush.

The buds of hibiscus form at the end of each stem and the more stems, the more flower buds.

Hardy hibiscus pruning

Pruning also lets in more light and improves air circulation.

When pruning, you inadvertently also remove some flower buds, not just foliage, which means a delayed bloom. However, the benefits of pruning far outweigh the longer wait for flowers.