No other flower stimulates the mind like the Hibiscus. And if you’ve traveled to Hawaii, you more than likely have fond memories of this flower, which strings the islands like a continuous lei. The variety grown there is Hibiscus ‘rosa sinensis’, which takes on tree-like proportions - growing flawlessly in the perfect tropical climate to 30 feet tall and 15 feet wide.
Offered in garden centers in most temperate climates, Hibiscus ‘rosa sinensis’ is generally not hardy outside tropical regions. Frost and freezing temperatures will generally cause cell damage and subsequent demise to these tropical zone beauties. Therefore, if you don't happen to live in the optimum climate, they will do well during the spring and summer months, but usually die when the frost hits.
Lesser known and more appropriate in hardiness to harsher climatic conditions are the Hibiscus 'moscheutos' (commonly known as the mallow Hibiscus) clan of old favorites and spectacular new hybrids.
Native to Eastern United States, the moscheutos sport the largest flowers to be found on any Hibiscus, some approaching dinner plate size. These incredible additions to the garden start blooming during the summer and sport new flowers daily which continue to bloom till summer ends. These horticultural gems are a must for those wanting to draw hummingbirds to the garden and create a tropical effect.
When the first killing frost does hit, the foliage dies to the ground, which requires a swift clean-up. Simply clip the foliage completely to the ground, where the crown will wait patiently until spring's awakening the following year.
Some of the older favorite varieties to look for are the ‘Disco Belle’ hybrids and are the most easily obtained - forming the basic lineup of the hardy Hibiscus. Available in solid white, white with a red eye, pink and red, these 3 to 4 foot gems are a must for any tropical landscape or perennial border. They are usually offered for sale in garden centers during the summer when they start to bloom.
New Hybrids are Continually Flooding the Market
Look for Blue River ll which sports a 10 inch wide pure white flower, borne on a 6 foot tall upright plant. Lord Baltimore is s favorite, sporting a waxy, thick maroon-red flower borne on a plant with attractive glossy foliage.
Other new forms, available from mail order companies like Forest Farm Nursery –www.forestfarm.com include: Bordeaux, Crown Jewel, Fantasia, Fireball, Grenache, Old Yella, and Pinot Noir. Also, of particular merit is Kopper King, a new form with copper colored leaves which resemble a maple leaf.
Unlike the tropical forms which are usually grown as an annual in the west these extremely hardy shrubs have the unusual ability to grow in extremely wet locations. This makes them a great candidate for the bog garden, or other swampy parts of the garden that have inadequate drainage.
Growing best in heavy soils due to its ability to hold moisture, this hibiscus will grow in lighter soils, as long it is consistently wet during the growing season. Full sun is best, but in hot climates the flowers will persist longer if sheltered from hot drying winds.
Two other Species of Hardy Hibiscus are Worthy of Mention
Hibiscus coccineus, also known as Scarlet Hibiscus is native to marshy areas of Georgia and Florida. Although the flowers are simple, this unusual hibiscus has interesting palmate foliage on erect stems that reach seven feet tall. Plant this one where it will form a tall backdrop for the water garden or perennial border.
Hibiscus mutabilis, also known as Confederate Rose grows to 15 feet tall in climates where it does not freeze. In the west, where killing frost does hit, this Hibiscus will partially defoliate and suffer some stem die-back. If this happens it should be cut back to 4 to 5 feet in late winter or early spring. This will promote a new flush of growth which will keep it looking good all season. The variety Rubra is the most popular variety, sporting red flowers, which like all Hibiscus will draw hummingbirds throughout the season.
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