Question
What are the little smooth oval brown bugs on my hibiscus plants stems and branches called? The leaves are going limp because of these bugs.

Answer
Florence,

It is probably scale. I would need a picture to be absolutely sure. You can spray the creatures with rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle and it will kill them on contact. However the insects are probably not the cause of the plant going limp. Usually overwatering or underwatering causes the plant to go limp. If it is very dry and light weight water it immediately. If it is wet and heavy take it to the sink or bathtub or outdoors and remove the drain tray and drain as much water as possible off the plant. Let it sit for several hour. The plant needs to get very dry between waterings. If not the roots will rot and cause the limpness you describe. If you have more questions feel free to write again.

Darlene