Hi David,

Your plant is called a Hibiscus Plant. Hibiscus Plants can be found outdoors in tropical and sub-tropical areas throughout the world. Hibiscus Plants also do well as indoor houseplants in warm, temperate climates. Hibiscus Plants prefer temperatures between 65-85 degrees. If the temperature goes below 40 degrees for a prolonged period of time new growth on Hibiscus Plants is ruined. You can certainly move your plant outside for the summer. Do not put your Hibiscus Plant into direct sun immediately or the leaves will burn. Put your Hibiscus in the shade at first and gradually move it into the sun day by day. You can also just leave it it bright indirect lightVery few houseplants should be placed in direct sun. High light refers only to bright indirect light since direct sun often burns the leaves of indoor houseplants. An area that is too hot and dry encourages Spider Mites and causes blooms to quickly fade. A northern exposure really doesn't provide enough light for high light plants. These plants need to be placed directly in front of an east-facing window, within 1-3 feet of a west-facing window, and within 5 ft. of a south facing window. A high light area has over 300 ft. candles of light. outside. You can read more about Hibiscus Plants in the Popular HousePlant section of the website.