Hardy hibiscus are easy-to-grow, sun-loving, native perennials with wonderful garden potential. Commonly known as the 'swamp rose mallow' or just 'rose mallow', these vigorous plants will produce flowers up to 10 inches across and offer several weeks of colorful blooms during the summer. At Plant Delights, we offer several hybrid cultivars of hibiscus that are cold-hardy as far north as Zone 4a.

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More Information About Hibiscus

Hibiscus plants flower mid-to-late summer and produce amazing blooms that attract a variety of pollinators including butterflies and hummingbirds. We have trialed many perennial hibiscus species over the years both at Plant Delights Nursery and at Juniper Level Botanic Gardens and have selected the best cultivars of hardy hibiscus plants to offer to the public.

Hibiscus (Rose Mallow) Care

Hibiscus are amazingly tolerant to the heat and humidity of the southern US provided they are watered deeply and regularly. These North American native plants love full sun and grow equally well in soggy soil, as a marginal aquatic or in typical garden conditions. If the soil is too dry, however, they can be susceptible to leaf scorch. Although some hardy hibiscus emerge from dormancy fairly late, they quickly grow to maturity.

When to Plant Hibiscus

The best time to plant hibiscus is anytime when you can keep them adequately watered. If you purchase a plant that is already in growth, be sure to plant after the danger of frost has passed.

Sun and Water Requirements

Full sun and, moist soil will give you the largest flowers and lushest foliage. Keep your hibiscus well-watered since they are not drought tolerant. If you see any wilting or leave loss, then increase your watering duration and/or schedule.

Fertilizing Hibiscus

Rose Mallows respond best to simple organic fertilizer. A fresh topping of compost once per year is sufficient for most.

Pests and Diseases

Hibiscus can be susceptible to a variety of pests including aphids, whiteflies, Japanese beetles, and spider mites if they are under stress. When plants are grown in proper conditions (moist, rich soils with a pH 5.5-6.5), sawfly larvae should be the only problematic pest. Most pests can be controlled with common organic insect controls. Fungal problems can be prevented by maintaining proper ventilation around the plant and by removing any dead or diseased leaves.

Bloom Time

Hardy hibiscus blooms typically emerge in mid to late summer and display huge, tropical-like flowers of red, pink, white, yellow, or purple. Be aware that the amount of sun and water effect the size and timing of flowers. Deadheading (removing faded flowers) while not necessary, can improve the appearance of your hibiscus.

Using Hibiscus in the Garden

Gardeners love hibiscus plants not only for the colorful flowers but also for the hardiness and vigorous growth. Few perennials give you more bang for your buck than a hibiscus. We love to use them as border plants in place of shrubs, bog plants, and even as a focal point. They are a fantastic addition to any cottage garden and do great in containers. Be sure to give them plenty of space as they can grow quite vigorously during the summer months and get as wide as 5-6 feet.

Dormancy and Winter Care

Hardy hibiscus will enter dormancy during the fall in Zones 4a to 8b. We prefer to leave the architectural stalks up over winter, both from a design perspective, but they also provide a perch for birds and a home for overwintering pollinators. The stalks can be cut down to the ground in spring before new growth emerges.

Hibiscus Companion Plants

Hardy hibiscus love water and pair well with brightly colored bog garden plants and with other water-loving rain garden plants. Here are just a few selections to get you started:

Hibiscus is in the mallow family which includes other popular garden plants. Check out all the mallows we offer here.

For more information on how to grow and care for hibiscus, read our Eleven Easy Tips for Growing Hardy Perennial Hibiscus and be sure to visit the JLBG blog for even more pictures and information related to the hibiscus plants for sale at Plant Delights Nursery.