West Coast Gem is a WA native hibiscus producing large, open lavender-mauve flowers with a darker centre from spring through autumn - a long, reliable flowering season for a native shrub. The flowers are much more open and delicate in appearance than tropical hibiscus - each one silky and translucent, with a quality more like a poppy than a garden hibiscus. The plant grows to around 1.5-2m and has an upright, airy habit with deeply lobed grey-green leaves. Drought tolerant, completely at home in Perth's sandy soils, and one of the more beautiful flowering natives for a medium garden position. Full sun. Well-drained soil. Phosphorus-free fertiliser. Drought tolerant once established.