Description
Product Description
Hibiscus moscheutos (Swamp Rose Mallow / Hardy Hibiscus) is a show-stopping native perennial for sunny, moisture-rich sites. From midsummer into fall, it unfurls massive, dinner-plate flowers (6–12″+) in shades of white, pink, or red—often with a bold contrasting eye—held above broad, tropical-looking foliage. Deep-rooted and long-blooming, it thrives in moist to wet soils along pond edges, in rain gardens, and in well-watered borders, drawing hummingbirds, butterflies, and pollinators for weeks.
Quick-Glance Specs
| Attribute | Details |
| Botanical Name | Hibiscus moscheutos |
| Common Name | Swamp Rose Mallow; Hardy Hibiscus; Crimson-Eyed Rose Mallow |
| Plant Type | Native perennial wildflower (herbaceous hibiscus) |
| Native/Non-native | Native to eastern North America |
| Hardiness Zone | 4–9 |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun (light part sun tolerated with steady moisture) |
| Moisture | Moist to wet; adapts to average soils with irrigation |
| Mature Height | 3–7 ft (site/cultivar dependent) |
| Mature Spread | 3–4 ft clump |
| Growth Habit | Upright, bushy; emerges late in spring from woody crowns |
| Growth Rate | Moderate to fast |
| Fragrance | None to light (varies by selection) |
| Bloom Time | Midsummer to frost |
| Flower Size/Color | 6–12″+ blooms; white, pink, red; often with dark eye |
| Seasonal Interest | Long bloom; bold foliage; persistent seed heads into winter |
| Foliage & Features | Large, tropical look; green to gray-green leaves |
| Landscape Features | Heavy pollinator draw (bees, butterflies, hummingbirds) |
| Landscape Uses | Rain gardens, wet meadows, pond/stream edges, well-watered borders |
| Soil | Rich loam or clay-loam; clay tolerant with moisture |
| Water Needs | Medium to high (keep evenly moist) |
| Maintenance | Low–medium; cut back after frost/late winter; leave late to emerge |
| Deer/Pest Resistance | Moderate—protect young growth if pressure is high |
| Container Friendly | Yes—in large, moisture-retentive containers |
| Recommended Spacing | 24–36″ on center |
Care & Growing Information
- Site & Light: Plant in full sun for maximum flower size and count; light part sun acceptable with steady moisture.
- Soil & Water: Prefers moist, fertile soils (loam or clay-loam). In average beds, provide regular irrigation—do not allow prolonged drought.
- Spring Emergence: This species emerges late—often after many perennials have leafed out. Mark its location and avoid premature removal.
- Planting: Set crowns level with soil; space 24–36″ for airflow. Mulch to conserve moisture (keep mulch off crowns).
- Maintenance: Deadhead for tidiness or leave seed heads for winter interest. Cut back stems to 4–6″ after frost or in late winter/early spring.
- Fertility: Moderate feeding in spring promotes strong bloom; avoid excessive nitrogen that can soften growth.
Key Features
- Spectacular 6–12″+ blooms midsummer to frost
- Moisture-loving native—excellent for rain gardens and pond edges
- Attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees
- Clay tolerant with steady moisture
- Bold, tropical foliage for high-impact borders
Problems
- Generally easy. Watch for Japanese beetles, hibiscus sawfly, and occasional aphids—use hand-picking or targeted, pollinator-safe controls. In drought or high heat without water, buds may abort; maintain even moisture. Ensure spacing to reduce leaf spot.
Uses in the Landscape
- Rain gardens and pond margins needing bold, long bloom
- Back-of-border anchors with ornamental grasses and late perennials
- Wet meadows and native plantings for habitat support
- Large containers on patios with consistent irrigation
Availability / Ordering
- Sizes Offered: #1 Gallon, 4″, DP-50 Plug
- Recommended Spacing: 24–36″ for cohesive drifts and airflow.
Why You’ll Love It
- Unmatched flower size and color on a hardy native perennial
- Thrives where many perennials struggle—moist to wet soils
- Simple care: water well, cut back once, and enjoy months of blooms
Quick Highlights
A moisture-loving native with huge, showy blooms—Hibiscus moscheutos powers rain gardens, pond edges, and sunny borders with pollinator action and dramatic color from midsummer to frost.
