Hibiscus coccineus
Hibiscus coccineus is a southeastern U.S. native known as scarlet rosemallow or Texas star. Tall stems carry vivid red, star‑like flowers from mid to late summer into early fall. Deeply cut leaves and upright habit add bold structure in borders and wet sites. Full sun and moist to wet soils give the best growth and flowering. Stems die back in winter and regrow each spring where hardy.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: Hardy hibiscus (herbaceous perennial)
- Height × spread: 6-8 ft (1.8-2.4 m) × 2-3 ft (0.6-0.9 m)
- Bloom window: mid summer to early fall
- Color & flower form: Scarlet red. Narrow petals with star‑like look
- Fragrance: 0 none
- USDA hardiness: zones 6 to 9
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown. unknown. USA
- Cut‑flower notes: Tall stems. Single flowers are short‑lived in water
- Pet safety: unknown . varies by source
How it differs
- Distinct star‑shaped blooms and dissected foliage.
- Taller and narrower than many hardy hibiscus.
- Moisture loving compared with shrub hibiscus.
- Dies back fully in winter and resprouts.
Strengths
- Strong vertical accent for rain gardens.
- Attracts hummingbirds and butterflies.
- Heat tolerant with moisture.
- Native species for naturalistic plantings.
Care in one minute
- Choose full sun and an evenly moist site.
- Amend with organic matter to hold moisture without waterlogging.
- Water during dry spells. Mulch 2 to 3 inches.
- Cut to the ground after frost or leave short stubble to mark clumps.
Watch‑outs
- Needs even moisture for best vigor.
- Leggy in shade or poor soils.
- Foliage may be nibbled by caterpillars.
Best uses (tags)
rain gardens, pollinators, back‑of‑border, wet sites, naturalistic plantings
Provenance note
Native to wet habitats of the southeastern United States. Long grown for bold summer color.
References
- Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center – Hibiscus coccineus
- NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox – Hibiscus coccineus
- Clemson HGIC – Hibiscus
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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