Examine the sides of the leaves; hibiscus has gently indented or ridged edges. The leaf is widest near the base, tapering to a point at the top. The leaf is roughly 2 to 3 inches from base to tip and around 3 inches across at the widest point when fully grown, though the size varies based on the age of the plant.
Check the color; hibiscus leaves are deep to medium green, featuring easily visible, light brown veins. Hibiscus sometimes has a heart-shaped indentation where the stem attaches to the leaf.
Check when new leaves appear on the plant; hibiscus leaves usually appear in February or March in the wild, although this varies if you keep your plant indoors or in a greenhouse. Dying hibiscus leaves turn yellow and then fall off when dead.