Hibiscus or Rose of China (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis) is a flowering plant that can bloom almost year-round. It has large, colorful flowers and is cultivated throughout the tropics and other warm climates. Hibiscus vary in size. The normal height is 12 to 18 inches, but they can grow to as high as 5 feet if not cut back. When buying hibiscus, look for plants that have lots of new buds and healthy leaves. Flowers appear where the leaves branch at the top of the stem and bloom for one to three days, depending on the plant variety.