Sea Hibiscus (Hibiscus pernambucensis): Coastal Beauty

The Sea Hibiscus, or Majahua (Hibiscus pernambucensis), is a remarkable species native to coastal regions of the tropics. Unlike the showy cultivars of H. rosa-sinensis, this is a wild species adapted to sandy shores, salt spray, and brackish water.

Coastal Adaptation

It grows as a large shrub or small tree, 10-20 feet tall, with heart-shaped, leathery leaves. The flowers are typical hibiscus form, 3-4 inches across, bright yellow with a deep red center, aging to orange-red. They bloom year-round in warm climates. The plant is highly salt-tolerant and helps stabilize dunes.

Plant Profile

Landscape Use

Ideal for seaside gardens in frost-free zones (Zone 10+). It makes a excellent windbreak, hedge, or specimen tree. Requires full sun, well-drained sandy soil, and is very drought and salt tolerant once established. A unique, ecologically valuable hibiscus.