Mahoe trees: Distinctive variegated leaves like no other.
Mahoe trees in Southwest Florida are one of those trees that makes you stop and ask, “What’s that?” You don’t see them very often, which is perplexing given that they’re evergreen, low-maintenance and just plain pretty. They thrive in zones 10 and 11 but do well in zone 9 with warmer microclimates.
Known as “Sea Hibiscus,” Mahoe trees produce hibiscus-like flowers that open yellow with deep red in the center. But throughout the day, it’s like they keep changing their mind, turning to orange and then again to red before dropping off at sunset. Thankfully, their short-lived beauty is followed by more blooms the next day and the day after that, all summer long.
Mahoe tree leaves are the stars of the show.
But let’s get back to those tri-colored leaves. They impress year-round with wonderful splashes of cream, burgundy and green – each leaf different with a personality all its own. And since they’re salt tolerant, they make a perfect tropical shade-tree choice for coastal properties. Be sure to plant in full sun so you can enjoy their distinctive color show.
Grow your variegated Mahoe as a tree or shrub.
Mahoe trees desire little more than being planted in well-drained soil and being nourished with a well-balanced liquid fertilizer about every four to six weeks during growing season. Don’t overwater or they may get root rot. These trees can get large — up to 10 to 20 feet – so prune as desired. Wish there were Mahoe shrubs? Easy enough. Just don’t prune the lower branches to maintain a lush shrubby look. Mahoes are fast growers and can be used as a single specimen planting or wide privacy screen.
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