The hibiscus is one of the most beloved flowers in India, but not only in India as it has been hybridized in Hawaii and the mainland U.S. especially in Florida, the home of the American Hibiscus Society. In fact, many of the world's finest hybridizers are in Florida. I had the opportunity to meet some of the greatest including Harry Goulding of Punta Gorda, Florida, the grand old man of hibiscus hybridizing, now deceased, but his hybrids live on forever with their beauty and uniqueness of breakthrough colours and shapes. Harry shared with us all his techniques as did Gordon Fore and others who welcomed us into their gardens and graciously shared all their knowledge for the benefit of Auroville and the Matrimandir Gardens.

There are many excellent books on growing hibiscus. Notably among them are the publications of the American Hibiscus Society Charitable Trust. 'The Hibiscus Handbook' is packed with valuable information on this plant they call "Queen of the Tropics". Here is a list of some of the Chapters:

Landscaping - includingtransplanting and pruning

Propagation - covering the most important subjects such as cuttings, grafting and air layering.These articles contain the most thorough information to be found in any publication.

Hibiscus syriacus - a brilliant article by Dr. Donald Egolf, at that time the Research Horticulturist of the U.S. National Arboretum.

The Genetic History of Hibiscus Rosa-sinensis - the most well known and beloved flowers of India.

The World of All Hibiscus - including cold-hardy species and hybrids, Hawaiian hibiscus and more.

Container Plants - All one needs to know about growing hibiscus in containers

Fertilizing
Hybridization
Photography

And much more!

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