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Hibiscus moscheutos
Hardy hibiscus (herbaceous perennial)
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: Hardy hibiscus (herbaceous perennial)
- Height × spread: 3-7 ft (0.9-2.1 m) × 2-4 ft (0.6-1.2 m)
- Bloom window: July to September
- Color & flower form: White to pink to red. Large single flowers
- Fragrance: 1 trace
- USDA hardiness: zones 5 to 9
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown. unknown. USA and Canada
- Awards/registration: North Carolina Wildflower of the Year, 1997
- Cut‑flower notes: Strong stems. Single blooms last under 1 day in water
- Pet safety: unknown . varies by source
How it differs
- Much larger flowers than most garden hibiscus.
- Water‑loving. Thrives in rain‑garden sites.
- Herbaceous and winter‑dormant, not woody.
- Slow to emerge in spring.
Strengths
- Spectacular flower size.
- Pollinator friendly.
- Handles heat and humidity with moisture.
- Adaptable to wet soils.
Care in one minute
Plant in full sun with good air flow.
Improve soil with organic matter to hold moisture without waterlogging.
Water deeply during dry spells.
Pinch once or twice for bushy growth and deadhead spent blooms.
Cut stems back in late fall. Leave 12 to 24 inches for native bee habitat.
Watch‑outs
- Stalls and scorches if soils dry out.
- Japanese beetles and leaf spots can occur.
- May lean in strong wind.
Best uses (tags)
Provenance note
Native to southern and eastern North American wetlands. A parent of many hardy hibiscus selections.
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder – Hibiscus moscheutos
- NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox – Hibiscus moscheutos
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