Turk's Cap Shrub

Shade-loving blooms that welcome hummingbirds

Showy, curled flowers that never fully open appear from midsummer through late fall, adding rich color when many other plants are slowing down. The blooms are especially attractive to hummingbirds, while the dense foliage provides a lush backdrop for shady beds and borders.

Native to the lower Southeast, Texas, and Florida, Turk’s Cap is a member of the hibiscus family. It grows best in moist, wooded areas or along river banks in part to dappled shade. Drought tolerant once established, it’s resistant to deer and a valuable plant to many butterflies, birds, and native bees. In the right conditions, it can grow to over 10 feet tall but is easily pruned to a manageable size.

Planting & Care

1. Planting: Plant or repot within 4 weeks of arrival. Choose a site with partial to full shade and well-drained soil. Dig a hole about twice as wide as the root ball and no deeper, then backfill and water thoroughly.

2. Watering: Water deeply and regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Once established, it is drought tolerant, though occasional watering during prolonged dry periods supports better flowering.

3. Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead growth and shape the shrub. In colder areas, cut back freeze-damaged stems after the danger of frost has passed.

4. Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring if growth is weak or the soil is poor. Avoid excessive fertilizer, which can encourage leafy growth at the expense of flowers.