Hibiscus aculeatus, commonly known as Pineland Hibiscus or Comfortroot, is a beautiful and versatile flowering shrub native to the southeastern United States, including Florida . 
   
 * Florida Native: Yes
 * Size at Maturity: Grows as a bushy perennial shrub, reaching 3-6 feet (0.9-1.8 meters) tall and wide.
 * Growth Rate: Moderate
 * Bloom Season: Provides a long blooming season, typically from early summer to fall (June to September).
 * Flower Color: Large (3-4 inch diameter) showy flowers with five creamy-yellow petals with a dark red or maroon center.
 * Leaf Shape:  Deeply lobed, okra-like leaves with rough or hairy texture.
 * Sunlight Requirements: Prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade.
 * Soil Texture: Prefers moist, well-drained soils but can adapt to various soil types.
 * Soil pH: Adapts to a wide range of soil pH levels (acidic to slightly alkaline).
 * Moisture Requirements: Average to moist. Water regularly during dry periods, especially when young. Once established, it's moderately drought tolerant.
 * Salt Spray Tolerance: No
 
Recommended Landscape Uses:
   * Borders
   * Butterfly gardens
   * Pollinator gardens
   * Containers (larger pots)
  
Maintenance Tips: Relatively low maintenance.
   * Water regularly during dry periods, especially during the first growing season.
   * Prune occasionally to control size and shape or encourage bushier growth (optional).
   * Deadhead spent flowers to potentially encourage additional blooms throughout the season (optional).
 
Considerations:
   * The stems and leaves can be quite hairy and irritate the skin, so wear gloves when handling the plant.
   * Generally pest and disease resistant.
 
Wildlife Benefits:
   * Attracts butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. Host plant for caterpillars, including those of the gray hairstreak butterfly (Strymon melinus), providing essential food sources for these butterfly larvae. The plant also provides cover and nesting sites for small birds and other wildlife
Toxicity:  Non-toxic to humans and pets.
Additional Information:
   * Hibiscus aculeatus is a valuable addition to Florida landscapes, providing color and attracting pollinators.
   * It's a good choice for borders, butterfly gardens, or even container plantings on patios or balconies.