Hardy Hibiscus

Hibiscus

* photo taken on July 25 2017 in Columbia, MD

Hibiscus acetosella 'Mahogany Splendor' (Mahogany Splendor Hibiscus)
A fast growing perennial ( annual north of zone 8 ), reaching up to 6 x 5.4 feet, with coarsely-toothed, maple-like leaves. The glossy foliage is deep burgundy-red to nearly black in color. It is mainly grown for its foliage since the pink flowers are small and inconspicuous.
Hardy zones 8 to 10 in full sun. It tolerates severe heat as well as both drought, flooding and standing water. It is often tip pruned to encourage bushiness.

* photo taken on Sep 5 2012 in Burtonsville, MD

* photo taken on Aug 30 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC

Hibiscus aculeatus ( Pineland Hibiscus )
A perennial, reaching up to 5 x 3 ( rarely over 3 ) feet that is native to bogs and wet pine flatwoods in the southeastern U.S. ( from far eastern Texas to southeastern South Carolian; south to central Florida ).
The fuzzy mid-green, deeply 5-lobed leaves are borne on hairy stems.
The creamy-white to pale yellow ( with deep reddish-purple center ) flowers, up to 5 inches wide, are borne early summer into autumn. They are attractive to hummingbirds.
Hardy zones 7 to 9 in full sun to partial shade on acidic, sandy, moist to wet well drained soil. It is not drought tolerant.

* photos taken on Aug 24 2017 @ U.S. Botanic Garden, Wash. DC.

Hibiscus coccineus ( Texas Star )
An upright, bushy, woody-based perennial, reaching up to 12 x 8 ( rarely over 10 ) feet that is native to wetland edges in the southeastern U.S. ( Arkansas to Virginia and south )
The Maple-like, mid-green foliage is sometimes said to resemble Cannabis in habit.
The scarlet-red flowers, up to 6 inches across, are borne early summer to mid autumn.
Hardy zones 7 to 10 ( 6 with deep winter mulch ). Prefers moist to wet soil but can tolerate the occasional extended drought. Cut old stems to near ground level during winter. Propagation is from seed soaked for 24 hours before sowing during spring. New plants should be installed during spring before active growth begins to ensure full establishment before winter begins.

* photo taken on Aug 21 2011 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD

* photos taken on July 1 2014 in Washington, DC

* photo taken on Oct 3 2016 in Annapolis, MD

* photos taken on Oct 13 2016 in Annapolis, MD

* photos taken on Aug 5 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD

* photos taken on Aug 24 2017 @ U.S. Botanic Garden, Wash. DC.

'Blaze Star'
Reaches up to 6 feet, with scarlet-red flowers, up to 8 inches across, borne over a period lasting up to 2.5 months beginning mid summer.

* photos taken on Jun 5 2016 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 17 2022 in Columbia, MD

'Swamp Angel'
Similar except for the flowers which are pure white!

* photos taken @ U.S. Botanical Garden, Wash., DC on Aug 25 2014

* photo taken on Aug 24 2017 @ U.S. Botanic Garden, Wash. DC.

* photo taken on Aug 24 2017 @ U.S. Botanic Garden, Wash. DC.

Hibiscus dasycalyx ( Neches River Rosemallow )
A woody-based perennial, reaching up to 7.5 x 9 feet, that is native to floodplains in eastern Texas where it remains in only 3 counties. It is endangered with extinction in the wild. Mature clumps may have in excess of 100 stems.
The finely-textured leaves are deeply-cut into 3 narrow lobes. The tread-like foliage is deep green.
The white to pale pink ( centered deep red ) flowers, up to 6 inches wide, are borne all summer long into mid-autumn.
Hardy zones 6 to 9 ( mulch deeply during winter in 6 & 7 ) in full sun to partial shade on fertile, moist to wet soil. It is recommended to water weekly and deeply during summer on upland sites.

* photo taken on Oct 21 2014 @ U.S. Botanical Gardens, Washington, DC

* photos taken on Aug 5 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD

* photos taken on Aug 1 2022 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD

Hibiscus grandiflorus ( Velvet Mallow )
A woody-stemmed perennial, reaching up to 8 x 8 feet, that is native to brackish marshes in the coastal southeastern U.S. ( Texas to Georgia; south to Florida )
The huge Maple-like leaves are gray-green and velvety. The foliage makes it a great plant for adding a tropical appearance to a temperate climate.
The showy light pink flowers, up to 10 inches across, are borne during late summer into autumn.
Hardy zones 6a to 9 ( a deep winter mulch is recommended in zone 6 ). It is resistant to Japanese Beetle.

* photos taken on Aug 24 2017 @ U.S. Botanic Garden, Wash. DC.

Hibiscus lasiocarpos ( Hairy Rose-Mallow )
Also called Hibiscus moscheutos ssp. lasiocarpos. A vigorous, upright, woody-based perennial, reaching up to 7 x 6 feet, that is native to the south-central U.S. ( from Kansas to southwest Indiana; south to southeastern New Mexico to northwest Florida ). It is found in ditches, marshes and swamp in the wild.
The toothed, ovate leaves are up to 6 inches long. The foliage is hairy, gray-green.
The white to rosy-pink ( with deep red eye ) flowers, up to 5 inches wide, appear mid-summmer to mid-autumn.
Hardy zones 5 to 10 in full sun to partial shade on fertile, moist soil. It is propagated by seed sown 0.25 inches deep that is first soaked in warm water for 24 hours.

* historic archive photo

Hibiscus makinoi ( Makino's Mallow )
A massive perennial or woody shrub, reaching up to 15 feet, it is best cut to the ground during early spring each year for a more attractive bushy habit.
Makino's Mallow is native to Ryoku & Kyushu Islands in Japan.
The Maple-like leaves are green.
The flowers, up to 5 inches across, are deep pink in bud, opening to very pale pink.
Hardy zones 7b to 10 in full sun on fertile, moist soil.

Hibiscus militaris ( Soldier Rose Mallow )
Also called Hibiscus laevis. A moderate growing perennial, reaching up to 8 x 6 ( rarely over 6 x 5 ) feet that is native to marshes and swamps in central and eastern North America ( from eastern Nebraska to southeast Minnesota to southeast Michigan & far southern Ontario to eastern Pennsylvania; south to central Texas to northwest Florida to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina ). It is extinct in the wild in Michigan and Ontario where it was last seen at Pelee Island in 1904.
The 3-lobed leaves, up to 5.5 inches in length, are similar to that of Liquidambar ( Sweet Gum ) in shape.
The pink ( with purple center ) flowers, up to 6.5 inches wide, are borne mid-summer to early autumn. The flowers are more trumpet-shaped than Hibiscus moscheutos. They attract hummingbirds and butterflies. Hardy zones 3 to 9 in full sun on fertile, moist to wet soil. It is not drought tolerant.

* photo taken by Jennifer Anderson @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

* photo taken on July 28 2021 in Columbia, MD

Hibiscus moscheutos ( Rose Mallow )
Sometimes known as Hibiscus palustris. A sub shrubby perennial that is native to marshes, salt marshes and swamps in the southeast U.S. ( from southeast Nebraska to southern Wisconsin to Michigan to Sarnia to Trenton, Ontario, New York State to Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire; south to eastern Texas to northern Florida ). It is endangered in Ontario and New Hampshire. In the Windsor/Essex County, Ontario region; it was abundant along Lake St Clair, the Detroit River islands, at Lasalle, along the Lake Erie shore from Amherstburg to Kingsville, around Point Pelee as well as the Lake Erie islands during the 1800s ( it is now rare in that region ). It was also abundant on the Ohio shore during that time. Variable in size but can reach a maximum of 10 x 6 feet on rich, moist soil though 5 x 5 feet is more typical. Excellent as a focal point, some of the smaller varieties can also be used in containers.
The broad-ovate or Maple-like ( 3-lobed ) leaves are up to 10 inches in length. The foliage is luxuriant mid-green.
The huge flowers, up to 1 foot wide, are borne mid-summer until the first autumn frost. They are typically white with a red center.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 ( mulch during winter in zones 4 and 5 ) in full sun to partial shade on fertile, humus-rich, moist to wet soil ( tolerates up to 6 inches of water ). They are tolerant of temporary drought but it is best not to let them get to the point of wilting as they will drop lower leaves as well as flower buds. It can even be grown in 20 gallon containers with moisture retentive heavier potting soil.
Tolerates lots of heat and humidity, and actually requires hot summers and full sun to bloom well. Due to their requirement of heat for growth, most perennial Hibiscus are late emerging in spring, not until 10 days after the soil temperature reaches 60 F ( mulching during spring may delay growth ).
Planting during spring is best since in cold winter climates, it needs to be fully established to tolerate a cold winter. A thick mulch, up to 3 to 5 inches deep is also recommended during winter, especially the first winter. A thick winter mulch is also recommended north of zone 7. Cut plants back to 3 inches from the ground after the first hard fall freeze. Plants can also be cut back by 1/2 during early summer to encourage a compact bushy habit.
Cultivars are typically propagated by means of tissue culture however tip cuttings can also be used however it is essential to take them early in the season.
Japanese Beetles can severely damage the foliage on some sites. Hibiscus Sawfly is also an occasional problem which will also turn the foliage into lacy skeletins. If you suspect Sawfly is feeding on your plants, look for tiny green worms beneath the leaves. Japanese Beetles and Sawfly Larvae may eat the leaves - treat plants with Bayer Systemic if that occurs. Other problems may include leaf spot or rust though rare. Rose Mallow is moderately prone to deer grazing.

* photo taken on 4th of July 2010 in Washington, D.C.

* photos taken on July 16 2012 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 4 2013 in Bayfield, Ontario

* photos taken on Aug 9 2020 in Columbia, MD

'Berry Awesome'
A vigorous compact perennial, reaching up to 4.5 x 6 feet in 3 years, eventually wider.
The deeply-cut foliage is blackish-green. The leaves are up to 7 x 7 inches in size.
The flowers, up to 8 inches wide, are lavender with a deep red center. They appear lasting up to 3 months during mid to late summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 9.

* photo taken on Oct 6 2021 in Howard County, MD

* photo taken on July 23 2022 in Ellicott City, MD

* patent photo

'Blue Brulee'
Compact in habit, reaching up to 5 x 5 ( rarely over 3 x 3 ) feet, that was developed by Texas A&M AgriLife Research.
The deeply-lobed foliage is deep green.
The intense bright blue flowers are centered deep red. They appear from early summer until autumn frost.
Hardy zones 5 to 9.

* photos taken on Aug 30 2018 in Elkridge, MD

* photos taken on July 27 2020 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Sep 5 2020 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Sep 4 2022 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 26 2023 in Columbia, MD

'Blue River II'
Reaching up to 8 x 4 feet with massive, clear white dinner plate sized flowers up to 15 inches across in late summer.

* photo taken on July 21 2011 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on July 11 2014 in Washington, DC

* photos taken on Aug 5 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD

* photos taken on Aug 13 2017 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Sep 17 2023 in Burtonsville, MD

'Blush'
Vigorous, reaching up to 3 x 5.1 feet in 5 years, eventually slightly more. It is part of the Heads Over Heals series of Hibiscus moscheutos hybrids.
The foliage is deep burgundy-red. The leaves are up to 8 x 6.7 inches in size.
The very large, pale pink ( with deep red centers ) appear mid-summer into early autumn.
Hardy zones 4 to 9

* photos taken on July 5 2021 in Elkridge, MD

* photo taken on Sep 3 2022 in Elkridge, MD

* patent photo

'Bordeaux'
Dense and full, reaching up to 3.5 x 3.5 feet with luxuriant green, ovate foliage.
The abundant, red ( slightly tinged pink ) flowers, up to 10 inches across, appear mid summer through autumn.

* photo taken on Aug 2 2013 @ Stratford, Ontario

'Candy Crush'
Part of the Summerific series, it is fast growing, compact, dense and upright in habit, reaching up to 4.8 x 6 feet in 3 years, eventually slightly wider.
The tri-lobed oval foliage is bright green. The leaves are up to 7.6 x 7.4 inches in size.
The intense mid-pink ( with deep reddish-black center ) flowers, up to 8 inches across, appear abundantly from mid summer into autumn.
Hardy zones 4 to 9

* photos taken on Oct 6 2022 in Ellicott City, MD

* photo taken on July 20 2023 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 2 2023 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Sep 25 2023 in Ellicott City, MD

* photos taken on Oct 5 2023 in Columbia, MD

* patent photo

'Chabilis'
Reaching up to 5.4 x 8.3 feet and dense in habit. The ovate foliage is luxuriant green. The huge, pure white flowers, up to 10 inches across, appear from mid summer through autumn. Hardy zones 4 to 9

* photos taken on August 12 2011 in Ellicott City, MD







* photo taken on June 7 2012 in Ellicott City, MD

* photos taken on July 30 2012 in Ellicott City, MD

br /> * photo taken on Aug 30 2013 in Ellicott City, MD

* photos taken on July 23 2014 in Ellicott City, MD

* photo taken on July 23 2014 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 5 2016 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on June 15 2017 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on July 27 2021 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 30 2022 in Ellicott City, MD

'Cherry Choco Latte'
Compact in habit, reaching up to 4 x 5.5 feet in 3 years, eventually slightly wider.
The 3 to 5 deeply-lobed foliage is very deep purplish-green. The leaves are up to 9 x 7 inches in size.
The flowers, up to 9 inches wide, are light to mid pink with a deep red center and veining.
Hardy zones 4 to 9

* photo taken on Aug 4 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC

* photos taken on Sep 28 2023 in Columbia, MD

* patent photo

'Cranberry Crush'
Very vigorous, compact and dense in habit, reaching up to 6 x 5 feet ( 4 x 4 feet in 3 years ), bearing intense, scarlet-red flowers, up to 8 inches across, from early summer until autumn frost. A single plant may produce up to 20 stems.
The leathery, Maple-like leaves, up to 5 x 3 inches in size, are glossy, deep green, often purplish tinged.
Very drought tolerant.
Tolerates at least as cold as -30 F. Drought tolerant and resistant to insect damage.

* photo taken on June 5 2018 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on July 25 2018 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on July 23 2019 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Sep 6 2019 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on June 10 2020 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 27 2020 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 22 2020 in Ellicott City, MD

* photos taken on Sep 21 2020 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 27 2021 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Aug 11 2022 in Columbia, MD

'Creme de la Creme'
A compact, upright form, reaching up to 3 x 3 feet, that is part of the Summer Spice hybrid series.
The foliage is deep green.
The white flowers have a purplish-red eye. They appear early summer until autumn frost.
Hardy zones 5 to 9

* photos taken on Sep 15 2019 in Elkridge, MD

* photos taken on Sep 27 2020 in Elkridge, MD

'Crepe Suzette'
Compact in habit, reaching up to 3 x 3 feet, that is one of the Summer Spice Hibiscus hybrid series.
The foliage is deep green.
It bears large scarlet-red flowers from early summer until autumn frost.
Hardy zones 5 to 9.

* photo taken on Sep 16 2020 in Elkridge, MD

'Cristi'
Reaches up to 6 feet, with huge, stunning shiny deep red flowers up to 9 inches wide. The abundant flowers appear during mid-summer and continue well into the fall. Hummingbirds love this Hibiscus.
Hardy zones 4+

* photo taken on July 25 2016 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on July 21 2022 in Columbia, MD

'Crown Jewels'
Compact in habit, reaching 4 x 6.6 feet.
The deeply-cut foliage is deep violet-purple.
The flowers, up to 10 inches across, are pure white with an intense deep red eye.
Very resistant to insect pests.
Hardy zones 4+, it tolerates at least as cold as -30 F and as hot as 110 F.

* photos taken on Aug 24 2015 in Columbia, MD

'Disco Belle Pink'
Compact in habit, reaching up to 4 ( rarely over 2.5 ) feet.
The very large flowers, up to 10 inches wide, are mid-pink towards the edges, fading to pinkish-white as you move in with a deep pinkish-red eye.

'Disco Belle Red'
Compact in habit, reaching up to 4 ( rarely over 2.5 ) feet.
The very large flowers, up to 10 inches wide, are red.

* photos taken on Aug 2 2011 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 28 2012 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 5 2016 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Aug 8 2021 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on June 19 2023 @ Hershey Gardens, Hershey, PA

'Edge of Night'
Part of the Summerific series. It is fast growing, reaching up to 3.2 x 5 feet in 4 years.
The foliage is glossy blackish-purple. The leaves are up to 6.2 x 5.5 inches in size.
The flowers are intense rosy-pink with a red center.
Hardy zones 4 to 9

* patent photo

'Evening Rose'
Part of the Summerific series, it is fast growing, compact, dense and upright in habit, reaching up to 4.8 x 5 feet in 4 years, eventually slightly wider.
The tri-lobed oval foliage is blackish-purple. The leaves are up to 7.6 x 7.4 inches in size.
The intense hot pink flowers, up to 8 inches across, appear abundantly from mid summer into autumn.
Hardy zones 4 to 9

* photos taken on Oct 26 2022 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on June 2 2023 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on July 26 2023 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 5 2023 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Sep 13 2023 in Columbia, MD

* patent photo

'Fantasia'
A vigorous, compact, shrub-like perennial reaching up to 6 x 6 ( rarely over 4 ) feet in size.
Luxuriant mid-green, lobed, Maple like foliage compliments abundant flowers up to 9 inches across that are rose-pink with a red eye, being borne from mid-summer until autumn frost.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 ( tolerating at least as cold as -30 F ).
Very heat tolerant, to 110 F. Very resistant to insect pests.

* photos taken on Aug 13 2017 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on July 25 2018 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Aug 1 2020 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Sep 15 2020 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Aug 11 2022 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Oct 6 2023 in Columbia, MD

'Fireball'
A vigorous, very sturdy, compact shrub-like perennial, reaching up to 6 x 10 ( rarely over 5 x 6 ) feet, with fine-textured, dissected, luxuriant purplish-green foliage.
The leaves are up to 6.5 x 6 inches in size.
The very profuse, huge, intense scarlet-red flowers, up to 12 inches across, are borne mid-summer until autumn frost.
Hardy zones 4 to 9, tolerating at least as cold as -30 F.
Very resistant to insect pests.

* photos taken on July 18 2014 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Sep 15 2011 in Columbia, MD


* photo taken on Aug 19 2012 in Harford Co., MD

* photos taken on Aug 18 2013 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Sep 21 2013 in Harford Co., MD

* photo taken on Oct 2 2016 in Harford Co., MD

* photos taken on July 25 2018 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Sep 29 2021 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 2 2022 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 24 2022 in Columbia, MD

'French Vanilla'
Fast growing and dense in habit, reaching up to 3.5 x 4.7 feet in 3 years, eventually to 4 x 5 feet.
The deep green foliage is borne on red stems. The leaves, up to 7.7 x 5.5 inches in size, are usually 3-lobed.
The flowers, up to 8 inches wide, are creamy-yellow with a bright red eye. The flowers appear over a period lasting up to 3 months from mid-summer into early autumn.
Hardy zones 4 to 9

* photo taken on Oct 6 2021 in Howard County, MD

* photos taken on Oct 24 2022 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on June 6 2023 in Columbia, MD

* patent photo

'Galaxy'
Upright and strong growing, to 6 x 4 feet. The huge flowers up to 12 inches across are borne from June into October. The flowers can be either white, pink or red, usually all on the same plant but usually with a red center.

* photos of unknown internet source




'Greenache'
A dense and sturdy, shrub-like perennial reaching up to 5.2 x 8.3 ( rarely over 4 x 5 ) feet with luxuriant green ovate foliage and intense pure pink flowers up to 8 inches across in mid summer.

* photo taken on Aug 3 2011 in Columbia, MD



* photo taken on July 16 2012 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on June 30 2012 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Sep 10 2012 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Aug 8 2014 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 3 2022 @ Howard Community College, Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 7 2023 @ Howard Community College, Columbia, MD

'Heartthrob'
Dense and compact in habit, reaching up to 4 x 6 feet, bearing very large, intense deep red flowers, up to 10 inches wide, during mid-summer to mid-autumn.
Hardy north to zone 4.

* photo taken on July 13 2014 in Elkridge, MD

* photo taken on Aug 30 2014 in Ellicott City, MD

* photo taken on Aug 3 2022 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 2 2023 in Columbia, MD

'Holy Grail'
Compact in habit, reaching up to 2.7 x 3.6 feet in 3 years, eventually to 4.5 x 5 feet.
The ovate to 3-lobed foliage is very deep purplish-black. The leaves are up to 6 x 3.3 inches in size.
The intense deep red flowers, up to 9 inches wide, appear over a period lasting up to 3 months during mid-summer into early autumn. Hardy zones 4 to 9

* photo taken on Oct 6 2021 in Howard County, MD

* photo taken on Aug 21 2022 in Elkridge, MD

* photo taken on Sep 3 2022 in Elkridge, MD

* patent photo

'Honeymoon Rose'
Vigorous but compact, reaching up to 2.5 x 2 feet in size.
The foliage is mid-green.
The intense rose-red flowers, up to 8 inches wide, appear mid-summer until autumn frost.
Hardy zones 4 to 9

* photo taken on Aug 27 2021 in Elkridge, MD

'Jazzberry Jam'
Forms a dense, shrublike perennial to 5 x 7 feet.
The ruffled flowers are up to 9 inches across and are deep magenta-pink with a red eye.
The foliage is clean and deep green.
Hardy north to zone 4.

'Kopper King'
Reaches up to 5 x 6.3 feet with attractive, bronze-purple, deeply cut ( 3 or 5 Maple lobed ) foliage. The leaves are up to 6.5 x 5 inches in size.
The profuse, huge flowers, up to 12 inches across, are white with pink veins and a raspberry red center. Blooms from July until first fall frost.
Very resistant to insect pests.

* photos taken on 4th of July 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.



* photo taken on August 2 2010 in Bayfield, Ontario

* photos taken on Sep 4 2011 in Harford Co, MD




* photos taken on July 14 2013 in Harford Co., MD

* photo taken on July 11 2014 in Washington, DC

* photos taken on July 18 2014 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on June 18 2016 in Harford Co., MD

* photo taken on Aug 5 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD

* photo taken on Aug 5 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD

* photo taken on July 13 2021 @ Hershey Gardens, Hershey, PA

* photo taken on Aug 2 2023 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 17 2023 in Columbia, MD

'Lady Baltimore'
Reaches up to 6 x 6 feet with attractive, deeply-cut, deep green leaves, up to 7 inches in length.
The abundant, large flowers, up to 12 inches across, are bright pink with a red center. The flowers are borne from July until first fall frost.

* photos taken on Aug 8 2014 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 5 2015 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Aug 13 2011 in Ellicott City, MD

* photos taken on Aug 27 2011 in Columbia, MD


* photo taken on July 10 2013 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Sep 5 2013 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Sep 14 2013 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on July 24 2014 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Sep 19 2014 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Sep 13 2015 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 15 2017 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Aug 21 2017 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Aug 25 2018 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on July 30 2020 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Sep 4 2021 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Sep 1 2023 in Columbia, MD

'Laveneder Crush'
Part of the Summerific series, it is fast growing, sturdy, compact, dense and upright in habit, reaching up to 5.5 x 4.5 feet in 4 years, eventually slightly wider.
The tri-lobed oval foliage is bronze. The leaves are up to 7.6 x 7.4 inches in size.
The lavender-blue ( with deep red eye ) flowers, up to 8 inches across, appear abundantly from mid summer into autumn.
Hardy zones 4 to 9

* photo taken on June 5 2023 in Elkridge, MD

'Lord Baltimore'
Reaches up to 10 x 7 ( rarely over 8 ) feet with deep green, deeply cut, attractive foliage.
The abundant flowers, up to 10 inches across, are brilliant scarlet-red and ruffled. Blooms from July until first fall frost.

* photos taken on Sep 2 2010 in Clarksville, MD






* photos taken on July 16 2012 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 31 2012 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 17 2012 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Sep 10 2010 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 25 2013 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 25 2013 @ University of Maryland, College Park

* photos taken on Aug 8 2014 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Oct 21 2014 @ Smithsonian Inst., Washington, DC

* photo taken on July 25 2016 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on June 26 2017 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Aug 5 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD

* photo taken on Aug 8 2017 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 24 2017 @ U.S. Botanic Garden, Wash. DC.

* photos taken on July 27 2019 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Aug 7 2020 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Aug 14 2022 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Sep 3 2022 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Sep 2 2022 in Washington, DC

* photos taken on Aug 23 2023 in Columbia, MD

'Luna Blush'
Sturdy, compact and vigorous, reaching up to 4.3 x 5.8 ( rarely over 3.5 ) feet, with abundant, very pale pink ( with red center ) flowers, up to 8 ( rarely 12 ) inches across, borne mid summer until autumn frosts.
The attractive foliage is mid-green.
Excellent for use in containers. Can be grown from seed.
Considered to be root hardy to -20 F, it is known to also survive and thrive in colder climates such as Thunder Bay, Ontario if supplied with reliable snow cover or thick winter mulch.

* photo taken by Milan Havlis, owner of central Europe's premier plant nursery

'Luna Pink Swirl'
Sturdy, compact and vigorous, reaching up to 4.3 x 4.5 ( rarely over 3.5 ) feet, with abundant, pink flowers, up to 8 inches across, borne mid-summer until autumn frosts.
The attractive foliage is deep green.
Excellent for use in containers. Can be grown from seed.
Considered to be root hardy to -20 F, it is known to also survive and thrive in colder climates such as Thunder Bay, Ontario if supplied with reliable snow cover or thick winter mulch.

* photo taken on July 15 2013 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 24 2014 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 15 2015 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 26 2017 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on July 13 2021 @ Hershey Gardens, Hershey, PA

* photo taken on Aug 7 2023 in Columbia, MD

Hibiscus 'Luna Red'
Sturdy, compact and vigorous, reaching up to 4.3 x 5.8 ( rarely over 3.5 ) feet, with abundant, red flowers, up to 8 ( rarely 12 ) inches across, borne mid summer until autumn frosts.
The attractive foliage is mid-green.
Excellent for use in containers. Can be grown from seed.
Considered to be root hardy to -20 F, it is known to also survive and thrive in colder climates such as Thunder Bay, Ontario if supplied with reliable snow cover or thick winter mulch.

* photo taken on July 10 2013 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken by Milan Havlis ( havlis.cz )

* photo taken on July 24 2014 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 24 2014 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 15 2015 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on July 26 2017 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on July 25 2018 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on July 27 2019 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 23 2020 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 26 2021 in Columbia, MD

'Luna Rose'
Sturdy, compact and vigorous, reaching up to 4.3 x 5 ( rarely over 3.5 ) feet, with abundant, deep red flowers, up to 8 inches across, borne mid-summer until autumn frosts.
The attractive foliage is deep green.
Excellent for use in containers. Can be grown from seed.
Considered to be root hardy to -20 F, it is known to also survive and thrive in colder climates such as Thunder Bay, Ontario if supplied with reliable snow cover or thick winter mulch.

* photo taken on Aug 18 2013 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 24 2014 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 15 2015 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 15 2015 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Oct 27 2015 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Nov 4 2015 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 25 2016 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 25 2018 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 27 2019 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 23 2020 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on July 13 2021 @ Hershey Gardens, Hershey, PA

* photos taken on July 24 2021 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Aug 4 2022 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 28 2023 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 11 2023 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 15 2023 in Columbia, MD

'Luna White'
Sturdy, compact and vigorous, reaching up to 4.3 x 5.8 ( rarely over 3.5 ) feet, with abundant, pure white ( with red center ) flowers, up to 8 ( rarely 12 ) inches across, borne mid summer until autumn frosts.
The attractive foliage is mid-green.
Excellent for use in containers. Can be grown from seed.
Considered to be root hardy to -20 F, it is known to also survive and thrive in colder climates such as Thunder Bay, Ontario if supplied with reliable snow cover or thick winter mulch.

* photo taken on Oct 30 2014 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Aug 11 2015 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 25 2016 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 16 2017 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 26 2017 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 27 2019 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 23 2020 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Aug 7 2020 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 24 2021 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 28 2023 in Columbia, MD

'Mars Madness'
A rapid growing perennial, reaching up to 5 x 6.5 feet.
The foliage is olive-green tinged with purple. The leaves are up to 8 x 7.2 inches in size.
The intense deep magenta-red flowers, up to 9 inches wide, are borne during mid to late summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 9, the flowers have excellent wind and rain resistance.

* photos taken on Aug 18 2020 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Aug 4 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC

* photos taken on Sep 2 2021 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 1 2022 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD

* photo taken on Oct 23 2022 in Burtonsville, MD

* photo taken on Aug 11 2023 in Columbia, MD

'Midnight Marvel'
A rapid growing, spectacular, perennial Hibiscus, reaching up to 5 x 6 feet.
This Hibiscus is excellent for a focal point in the perennial border or as a seasonal hedgerow.
The deeply-lobed, Maple-shaped, blackish-purple foliage is even darker 'Kopper King'. The foliage turns to attractive orange shades during autumn.
The very abundant, huge, deep red flowers, up to 10 inches across, are borne over an exceptionally long season lasting up to 12 weeks from mid July until mid autumn.
Hardy zones 5 to 9

* photo taken on June 10 2013 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 30 2013 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 2 2013 in Stratford, Ontario

* photo taken on July 7 2016 in Elkridge, MD

* photo taken on Aug 20 2016 in Elkridge, MD

* photo taken on July 25 2017 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 25 2019 in Elkridge, MD

* photo taken on Aug 21 2022 in Elkridge, MD

* photos taken on Sep 11 2023 in Ellicott City, MD

'Moy Grande'
Bushy in habit, reaching up to 7 x 6.8 feet in size, with huge, abundant, bright rosy-red flowers, up to 16 inches across! The flowers, borne mid summer to early autumn are among the largest of all Hibiscus.
The luxuriant deep green foliage is not deeply-cut.
Hardy zones 5a+

'Old Yella'
Vigorous, sturdy, upright and bushy in habit, reaching up to 6 x 4 feet ( 4 x 2.5 feet in 2 years ).
The leaves are up to 6.5 x 5 inches in size.
The abundant, huge, thick flowers, up to 12 inches across, are very pale yellow with a red eye. The slightly ruffled flowers are bright yellow in bud. The flowers appear mid-summer until autumn frost.
Tolerates at least as cold as -30 F. Very resistant to insect pests.

* photo taken by Milan Havlis, owner of central Europe's premier plant nursery

* photos taken on July 11 2014 in Washington, DC

'Party Favor'
Upright and rounded, reaching up to 5 x 4.5 feet in 3 years, eventually to 5 x 5.2 feet.
The leaves are up to 9 x 14 inches in size. The foliage is bright green.
The huge, mid-pink flowers, up to 10 inches wide, appear up to 3 months during mid-summer until autumn frost.
Hardy zones 4 to 9.

* photos taken on July 25 2018 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 12 2020 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 18 2020 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Sep 5 2020 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Oct 1 2020 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 19 2021 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Aug 15 2021 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Sep 4 2021 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Aug 3 2022 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Sep 27 2022 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 2 2023 in Columbia, MD

'Passion'
Also called 'Head Over Heels Passion'. Fast growing but compact in habit, reaching up to 3.8 x 5.8 feet in 5 years, eventually slightly wider.
The foliage is glossy deep purple. The shallowly 3-lobed leaves are up to 8 x 5.5 inches in size.
The huge flowers, up to 10 inches wide, are deep pink with a deep red center. They appear early to mid summer.
Hardy zones 6 to 9

* photos taken on Aug 17 2020 in Elkridge, MD

* photos taken on Sep 1 2020 in Elkridge, MD

* photo taken on oct 3 2022 in Elkridge, MD

* patent photo

'Peppermint Flare'
Reaches up to 6 x 5 feet, with huge flowers, up to 10 inches across, that are white to very pale pink with a deep red center from which red specks radiate.

* photos taken on Aug 11 2021 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Sep 14 2021 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 4 2022 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 7 2023 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 11 2023 in Columbia, MD

'Perfect Storm'
Compact in habit, reaching up to 3 x 4 feet in 3 years, eventually to 4.5 x 6 feet.
The foliage is deep purplish-red. The 3-lobed leaves are up to 6.5 x 6.5 inches in size.
The abundant flowers, up to 8 inches wide, are pale pink with a deep red center. The flowers appear over 2 or more months from late summer into mid-autumn.
Hardy zones 4 to 8, the flowers have excellent wind and rain resistance.

* photo taken on June 5 2019 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 27 2019 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 26 2020 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 22 2020 in Ellicott City, MD

* photos taken on July 13 2021 @ Hershey Gardens, Hershey, PA

* photos taken on Aug 4 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC

* photos taken on Aug 1 2022 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD

'Pink Elephant'
Reaches up to 6 x 5 feet, with huge, ruffled pink ( with red eye ) flowers, up to a foot across!

'Pinot Grigio'
Compact and sturdy in habit, reaching up to 3 x 3 feet.
The foliage is mid-green.
The huge white ( with red center ) flowers, up to 10 inches wide, appear mid-summer into early autumn.
Hardy zones 4 to 9

* photos taken on Aug 5 2020 in Elkridge, MD

'Plum Crazy'
Vigorous and compact, to 4 x 5 feet ( 3.5 x 3 feet in 2 years ).
The purplish leaves, up to 6 x 4 inches, are 3-lobed and deeply dissected.
The plum-pink ( with deeper eye ) flowers, up to 10 inches across, are borne mid summer until autumn frosts.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 at least ( tolerating -30 F or colder if mulched deeply during winter ). It can also tolerate as high as 110 F.
Very resistant to Japanese Beetles.

* photo taken on July 10 2013 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on July 11 2014 in Washington, DC

'Plum Fantasy'
Fast growing, reaching up to 5.5 x 5.5 feet, with very deep green foliage and deep magenta-red ( purplish-red eye ) flowers up to 9 inches across. The flowers appear mid-summer into mid-autumn.
Hardy zones 4 to 9

* photos taken on July 25 2017 in Elkridge, MD

* photos taken on Aug 18 2020 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 27 2023 in Columbia, MD

'Plum Flambe'
Compact in habit, reaching up to 3 x 3 feet.
The foliage is deep green.
The huge, ruffled flowers, up to 8 inches wide, are violet-pink with a deep red center. They appear during early summer into autumn.
Hardy zones 5 to 9

* photo taken on Aug 26 2019 in Elkridge, MD

* photo taken on July 12 2022 in Elkridge, MD

'Raspberry Rose'
A massive perennial, reaching up to 7 x 10 feet in size.
The foliage is mid-green.
The very abundant, intense rose-red flowers, up to 10 inches wide, are borne mid-summer to mid-autumn.
Hardy zones 4 to 9.

'Robert Fleming'
Also called 'Torchy'. Fast growing but compact in habit, reaching up to 6 x 5 ( rarely over 4 ) feet.
The crinkled leaves are deep green.
The abundant, huge, velvety, intense very deep red flowers, up to 12 inches across, are borne late June and well into autumn.
Hardy zones 4 to 10. Very drought tolerant.

* photos taken on Aug 5 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD

'Royal Gem'
Compact in habit, reaching up to 4 x 6 feet.
The unusual foliage is ovate and deep purple. The leaves are up to 5 x 3.5 inches in size.
The intense pink ( with red eye ) flowers, up to 1 foot across, are borne mid summer to early autumn.
Hardy zones 4+ ( 3 with deep winter mulch )

* photos taken on Oct 13 2015 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 25 2016 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 1 2017 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 27 2019 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 27 2019 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Sep 5 2019 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on June 10 2020 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 23 2020 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Sep 5 2020 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 24 2021 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Sep 14 2021 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 4 2022 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 27 2023 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 15 2023 in Columbia, MD

'Southern Belle'
Rapid growing, sturdy and upright, to 6 x 3 ( rarely over 4 ) feet with large, dense foliage. The huge flowers are borne from July to first fall frost and are up to 10 inches across. They are white, rose pink to deep red.
Moderately deer resistant.

* photo taken on Sep 18 2017 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Aug 3 2020 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Aug 4 2022 in Columbia, MD

'Starry Night'
Among the newest and most attractive cultivars, it is vigorous but compact in habit reaching up to 3.3 x 5 feet in 3 years, eventually to 5 x 5 feet. It originated from Walter's Gardens.
The Maple-like foliage is blackish-burgundy. The leaves are up to 8 x 7 inches in size.
The abundant, huge flowers, up to 8 inches wide, are bi-colored bright pink and dark pink with a red center. The flowers appear mid-summer into mid-autumn.
Hardy zones 4 to 8.

* photo taken on Aug 4 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC

* photos taken on Aug 13 2021 in Elkridge, MD

* photo taken on July 9 2022 in Bayfield, ON

* photo taken on Sep 17 2023 in Burtonsville, MD

* photo taken on July 7 2023 in Bayfield, ON

* patent photo

'Summer Carnival'
Very vigorous but compact in habit, reaching up to 4.4 x 6.2 feet in 3 years, eventually slighly wider.
The foliage is deep green and boldly margined creamy-white to blush-pink. The 3-lobed leaves are up to 8.5 x 5.5 inches in size.
The flowers, up to 7 inches wide, are deep pinkish-red. The flowers appear late summer into early autumn.
Hardy zones 4 to 9

* photos taken on Aug 4 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC

'Summer Storm'
A rapid growing, spectacular, perennial Hibiscus, reaching up to 7 x 9 feet.
This Hibiscus is excellent for a focal point in the perennial border or as a seasonal hedgerow.
The deeply-lobed, Maple-shaped, velvety, blackish-purple foliage is the deepest colored of all Hibiscus including 'Kopper King'. The foliage turns to attractive orange shades during autumn.
The very abundant, huge flowers, up to 10 inches across, are borne over an exceptionally long season lasting up to 12 weeks from mid July until mid-autumn. The flowers are light pink with a deep magenta-purple eye and radiating rose-pink veining.
Hardy zones 4 to 9.

* photos taken on July 7 2017 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Aug 17 2018 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 26 2020 in Columbia, MD

'Sweet Caroline'
A fast growing, large perennial up to 6 x 5 feet in size with luxuriant foliage that is bright green at first, later deepening to mid-green. The leaves are up to 7 x 5 inches in size.
The very large, ruffled flowers, up to 12 inches across, are bright pink with darker veins and a rose-red center. The flowers are borne over a very long season beginning mid-summer.
Hardy zone 4 to 9

* photos taken on July 21 2011 in Columbia, MD



* photo taken on July 28 2012 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Aug 18 2013 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 23 2014 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 5 2015 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 12 2016 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Aug 8 2017 in Columbia, MD

'Valentine's Crush'
Part of the Summerific series, it is fast growing, sturdy, compact, dense and upright in habit, reaching up to 5 x 3.5 feet in 4 years, eventually slightly wider.
The tri-lobed oval foliage is bronze. The leaves are up to 7.6 x 7.4 inches in size.
The intense red flowers, up to 8 inches across, appear abundantly from mid summer into autumn.
Hardy zones 4 to 9

* photo taken on June 5 2023 in Elkridge, MD

* photos taken on July 22 2023 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 23 2023 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 2 2023 in Columbia, MD

* patent photo

Hibiscus mutabilis ( Confederate Rose )
Native to China, in cold climates this is a massive perennial, reaching up to 12 feet. In tropical climates, it becomes a very fast growing, upright, branched, evergreen tree, reaching a maximum size of 27 x 12 feet.
The large, 5 to 7 lobed, palmate leaves are up to 10 inches in length. The foliage is deep green.
The flowers, up to 7 inches across, have up to 12 petals.
The blooms range in color from white to pink ( less often red ), and are borne mid summer until autumn frost.
They are followed by rounded seed capsules, up to 1 inch across.
Hardy zones 9 to 12 as a tree, 7 to 8 as a perennial.
Fertilize heavily, as it prefers very fertile, moist, fertile soil in full sun. Cultivars are easily rooted from cuttings.

* photo taken on October 17 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.


'Alba'
The smaller, pure white flowers are double.

'Plena'
The double flowers open white, later deepening to deep rosy-red.

'Raspberry Rose'
A massive, vigorous perennial ( evergreen tree in the tropics ), reaching up to 12 x 10 feet.
The foliage is deep green.
The very profuse, huge, intense raspberry-red flowers, up to 10 inches across, are borne early summer to mid autumn.
Hardy zones 7 to 12 ( 6 with deep winter mulch ).

Hibiscus paramutabilis
A fast growing, very large perennial ( or woody plant in mild climates ), reaching up to 12 x 8 feet.
The fuzzy, Maple-like leaves, up to 9 inches across, are mid-green.
The flowers, up to 4 inches across, are borne late summer until autumn frost.
Hardy zones 8b to 11 on moist to wet soil.

'Shanghai Pink'
Larger pink flowers, up to 6 inches across.
Hardy zones 7 to 9

'Shanghai Red Eye'
Pure white flowers that are bright red in the center.
Hardy north to zone 7b

Hibiscus 'Red Flyer'
A hybrid between Hibiscus coccineus & H grandiflorus, that originated from Plant Delights Nursery.
It forms a very vigorous, monstrous perennial, reaching up to 12 feet in height.
The foliage is deeply-cut.
The intense deep pinkish-red flowers are borne mid summer to autumn frost.

Hibiscus sinosyriacus ( Chinese Tree Mallow )
An open, spreading, fast growing large shrub or small tree native to China, that is similar to Hibiscus syriacus ( Rose of Sharon ) except with wider leaves ( to 8 inches across ) and thicker flower petals. The largest on record is 33 x 20 feet.
The Maple-like foliage is glossy deep green.
The large flowers reach up to 8 ( rarely over 4 ) inches across and are borne from August until October.
Prefers hot summer climates or where cool does best against a sunny wall.
Hardy zones 6 to 10 ( less hardy in cool summer climates ) in full sun on fertile soil.
Plant new plants in spring or fall and cut back all shoots to 2 inches of their base to get the plant started growing vigorously. Is best planted small because large plants are much tougher to get established. For better blooming, vigor and larger flowers of mature plants, prune in March and tip back shoots at that time, then deadhead faded blooms in summer. Old overgrown plants can be cut back hard in early spring.
Propagation is from green wood cuttings taken in late spring and also semi ripe cuttings in summer. Generally not grown from seed since while easy, the resulting plants can be very variable. Prefers moderately moist soil with lots of organic matter in sun or partial shade. This plant grows poorly and sparse in full shade.

* photo taken on Aug 4 2013 in Bayfield, Ontario

'Autumn Surprise'
Flowers are white with an intense red center.
'Lilac Queen'
Flowers are white flushed with lilac, centers are red.
It is otherwise identical to species.

Hibiscus syricaus ( Rose of Sharon )
An upright, vigorous, large shrub or small tree ( if trained ) that is native to western Asia and can reach up to 12 feet or more. Some records include: fastest recorded growth rate - 3 feet; 10 years - 17 x 17 feet; largest on record - 33 x 33 feet with a trunk diameter of 1.1 foot.
The narrow, coarsely 3 triangular-lobed leaves are up to 4 or rarely 6 inches in length. The deep green foliage persists late into the fall when it turns yellowish-green before falling.
The flowers come in almost every color except for yellow and orange. The flower petals are up to 3 inches in length.
The branches are smooth and gray.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 and possibly 4 on a very sheltered site. Prefers hot summer climates or where cool does best against a sunny wall. Plant new plants during spring or fall and cut back all shoots to 2 inches of their base to get the plant started growing vigorously. Is best planted small because large plants are much tougher to get established. For better blooming, vigor and larger flowers of mature plants, prune in March and tip back shoots at that time, then deadhead faded blooms in summer. Old overgrown plants can be cut back hard in early spring. Propagation is from green wood cuttings taken in late spring or semi ripe cuttings in summer. Generally not grown from seed since while easy, the resulting plants can be very variable. Prefers moderately moist soil with lots of organic matter in sun or partial shade. This plant grows poorly and sparse in full shade. Japanese Beetles and aphids do sometimes attack this plant.

* photos taken on July 13 2010 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on July 17 2010 @ Morris Arboretum, Philly, PA

* photo taken on June 25 2015 in Columbia, MD

* photos of unknown internet source


* hibiscus syriacus in Port Rowan, ON

'Admiral Dewey'
The double flowers are white.

* photo taken on August 5 2010 in Clinton, Ontario

* photo taken on Aug 1 2013 in Stratford, Ontario

* historic archive photo

'Aprodite'
Compact in habit, reaching up to 10 x 8 feet in 10 years, with an eventual maximum size of 12 x 10 feet.
The leathery, deep green foliage turns to yellowish-green during autumn.
The abundant, ruffled, clear pink ( with red eye ) flowers, up to 5 inches wide, are borne mid-summer to mid-autumn. This cultivar produces little seed and flowers produsely from mid-summer to mid-autumn.


* photos taken on Aug 6 2020 in Columbia, MD

'Blueberry Smoothie'
Fast growing with a dense, broad, upright habit, reaching up to 8 x 4 feet in 10 years.
The foliage is bright golden-yellow. The ovate leaves are up to 4.2 x 3 inches in size.
The abundant, semi-double, blue flowers, up to 4 inches wide, appear early summer until autumn frost.
This cultivar is sterile and does not self-seed.

* photo taken on May 27 2023 in Burtonsville, MD

'Blue Bird'
Vigorous, with large, single flowers, up to 5 inches across, that are gentian blue with a purplish center.

* photos taken on July 1 2011 in Columbia, MD






'Blue Chifton'
A fast growing, upright shrub, reaching up to 2.8 x 2.7 feet in 2 years, to 9 x 6 feet in 4 years, up to 10 feet in height.
The ovate leaves, up to 3.4 x 2.3 inches in size, are deep green.
Bears large, bright blue flowers, up to 3.5 inches across, from mid-summer to mid-autumn.
The deeply-lobed, deep green foliage turns to yellowish-green during autumn.

* photo taken by Milan Havlis, owner of central Europe's premier plant nursery

'Blue Satin'
Vigorous, dense and upright rounded in habit, reaching up to 9 x 6 feet in 4 years, eventually to 12 x 8 feet.
The bright green foliage turns to yellowish-green during autumn. The ovate leaves are up to 3 x 2 inches in size.
The abundant, large, intense blue, single flowers, up to 4.2 inches wide, appear mid-summer into mid-autumn.

* photo taken on July 23 2014 in Ellicott City, MD

* photos taken on Aug 24 2015 in Ellicott City, MD

* photos taken on July 30 2022 in Ellicott City, MD

'Brabant'
Also called Duc de Brabant. Double deep purplish-pink flowers

* photos taken on August 5 2010 in Clinton, Ontario



* photos taken on Aug 4 2013 in Bayfield, Ontario

* photo taken on Sep 29 2016 in Wilkes-Barre, PA

* brabant rose-of-sharon in Detroit, MI

* photos taken on Sep 6 2021 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Aug 22 2021 in Bayfield, ON

* photos taken on Aug 20 2022 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Sep 12 2022 in Columbia, MD

'Coelestis'
Reaches up to 12 feet in height with lilac-blue ( with red center ), single flowers.

* photos taken on August 2 2010 in Bayfield, Ontario


* photos of unknown internet source



'Chateau de Chantilly'
Fast growing, upright and vase-shaped, reaching up to 6 x 4 feet in 10 years, eventually slightly more.
The ovate leaves, are up to 2.4 x 1.6 inches in size.
The very abundant, large, white flowers, up to 4.8 inches wide, are centered deep red-violet

* photo taken on Aug 21 2022 in Elkridge, MD

'Chateau de Versailles'
Fast growing, upright and vase-shaped, reaching up to 6 x 4 feet in 10 years, eventually slightly more.
The ovate leaves, are up to 2.4 x 1.6 inches in size.
The very abundant, large, bright blue flowers, up to 4.8 inches wide, are centered deep red-violet

* photo taken on Aug 21 2022 in Elkridge, MD

* photo taken on Oct 18 2023 in Elkridge, MD

'Diane'
Pure white, single flowers, up to 6 inches across, appear mid-summer to early autumn. Produces few seeds.
The deep green foliage turns to yellowish-green during autumn.

* photos taken on July 17 2010 @ Morris Arboretum, Philly, PA




* photo taken on August 4 2010 @ Stratford, Ontario

* photo taken on August 5 2010 in Clinton, Ontario

* photos taken on July 7 2012 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on on Aug 1 2014 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken @ Smithsonian Inst, Wash., DC on Aug 25 2014

* photo taken on July 8 2016 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on July 27 2019 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Sep 16 2022 in Ellicott City, MD

* photo taken on Sep 1 2023 in Columbia, MD

'Hamabo'
The large, single flowers are bluish-white with a crimson center.

* photos taken on July 17 2010 @ Morris Arboretum, Philly, PA



'Helene'
Compact in habit, reaching about 8 x 7 ( avg ) feet in 10 years, eventually 15 feet or more. Some records include: 4 years - 7 feet.
The leathery foliage is deep green.
The abundant, white ( with red eye spot ), ruffled flowers are borne mid-summer to mid-autumn. This cultivar produces little seed.

* photos taken by Milan Havlis, owner of central Europe's premier plant nursery

* photos taken on July 11 2014 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on July 24 2014 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken @ Smithsonian Inst, Wash., DC on Aug 25 2014

* photos taken on July 15 2015 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 1 2016 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on July 7 2017 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Aug 30 2017 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on July 20 2017 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 27 2020 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Oct 27 2021 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Sep 4 2022 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Jan 24 2023 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Oct 20 2023 in Columbia, MD

'Hino Maru'
Reaches only up to 6 feet with single, pure white flowers to 6 inches across.

'Lady Stanley'
Flowers are white shaded pink, center is crimson.

* photos taken by Milan Havlis, owner of central Europe's premier plant nursery

'Lavender Chifton'
A fast growing, upright shrub, reaching up to 2.8 x 2.7 feet in 2 years, to 9 x 6 feet in 4 years, to 10 x 8 feet in 10 years, eventually slightly more.
The large, lavender-pink, double flowers, up to 4 inches across, appear mid-summer to mid-autumn.
The deeply-lobed, deep green foliage turns to yellowish-green during autumn.

* photos taken on Aug 4 2013 in Bayfield, Ontario

* photo taken on July 23 2014 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken by Milan Havlis, owner of central Europe's premier plant nursery

* photo taken on Sep 13 2015 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Sep 8 2020 in Elkridge, MD

* photo taken on July 5 2021 in Elkridge, MD

'Lil Kim'
Moderate growing, dense, dwarf and compact, reaching up to 2.8 x 2.2 feet in 3 years, eventually to 4 x 4 feet.
The thick foliage is deep green. The ovate leaves are up to 3 x 1.6 inches in size.
The single flowers, up to 3.6 inches wide, are white with a bold deep red center. They appear during mid-summer into early autumn.

* photo taken on Sep 16 2022 in Ellicott City, MD

* patent photo

'Lucy'
Fast growing, reaching up to 10 x 8 feet in 10 years, eventually to 12 x 12 feet.
The abundant, large, bright red, double flowers appear mid-summer into early autumn.
The deep green foliage turns to yellowish-green during autumn.

* photo taken on July 15 2015 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 29 2021 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 10 2021 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 29 2022 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Aug 11 2023 in Columbia, MD

'Magenta Chifton'
A fast growing, upright shrub, reaching up to 2.8 x 2.7 feet in 2 years, to 9 x 6 feet in 4 years, to 10 x 8 feet in 10 years, eventually slightly more.
the leaves, up to 3.4 x 2.3 inches in size, are deep green.
The large, magenta-red, double flowers, up to 4 inches across, appear mid-summer to mid-autumn.
The deeply-lobed, deep green foliage turns to yellowish-green during autumn.

* photo taken on July 5 2021 in Elkridge, MD

* photos taken on Aug 26 2021 in Columbia, MD

'Minerva'
Compact in habit, reaching about 12 x 10 feet. Some records include; 2nd year - 3.3 feet. The leathery foliage is deep green.
The abundant, lavender ( with dark red eyespot ) flowers, up to 5 inches wide, appear mid-summer to mid-autumn. This cultivar produces little seed.
Hardy zones 5 to 8, cuttings root very easily, sometimes after being just stuck in the ground.

* photo taken on Aug 4 2013 in Bayfield, Ontario

* photos taken on May 27 2017 @ Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, Vienna, VA

* photos taken on July 20 2020 in Ellicott City, MD

* photos taken on Aug 22 2020 in Ellicott City, MD

* photo taken on Aug 4 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC

* photos taken on Aug 6 2021 in Ellicott City, MD

'Purpureus Variegatus'
Stunning! It reaches a maximum size of 12 x 8 feet with glossy mid-green foliage that is boldly splashed and margined creamy-white. The very double, purple flowers contrast nicely with the foliage.
It does not produce seed.

* photo taken by Milan Havlis, owner of central Europe's premier plant nursery

'Red Heart'
The Abundant, pure white ( with red center ), single flowers, otherwise identical to species.

* photos taken on July 1 2011 in Columbia, MD



* photo taken on Aug 1 2016 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on July 23 2020 in Columbia, MD

'Rosalinda'
The semi-double flowers are deep purple and centered red.

'Rose Satin'
Vigorous and large growing.
The leaves are larger than average.
The large, single, rosy-pink ( centered red ), ruffled flowers add tropical appeal.

* photo taken on July 25 2016 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on July 20 2023 in Columbia, MD

'Strawberry Smoothie'
Fast growing, vase-shaped in habit, reaching up to 5.3 x 2.4 feet in 2.5 years, to 8 x 4 feet in size in 10 years, eventually slightly more.
The glossy foliage is mid-green. The ovate leaves are up to 4.2 x 3 inches in size.
The semi-double flowers, up to 4 inches wide, are very pale pink with some deep red striations on the inside.
The cultivar is sterile and does not self-seed.
text description coming soon

* photo taken on Aug 30 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC

'Sugar Tip'
Moderate growing, compact and upright, reaching up to 8 x 4 feet in 3 years, to 12 x 5 feet in 10 years, eventually up to 15 x 12 feet or more.
The blue-green foliage is variegated with a narrow creamy-white border. The leaves are up to 3 x 1.6 inches in size.
The abundant, pale pink, double flowers, up to 2.5 inches wide, appear mid-summer into mid-autumn.

* photos taken on July 15 2015 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 5 2016 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on June 5 2018 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on May 27 2023 in Burtonsville, MD

'Sugar Tip Gold'
Moderate growing, compact and upright, reaching up to 5 x 5 feet in 10 years, eventually up to 9 x 7 feet or more.
The blue-green foliage is variegated with a very broad golden-yellow ( later creamy-white ) border. The leaves are up to 3 x 2 inches in size.
The abundant, pale pink, double flowers, up to 2.5 inches wide, appear mid-summer into mid-autumn

* photo taken on May 27 2023 in Burtonsville, MD

* photos taken on June 19 2023 @ Hershey Gardens, Hershey, PA

* patent photo

'White Chifton'
A fast growing, upright shrub, reaching up to 2.8 x 2.7 feet in 2 years, to 9 x 6 feet in 4 years, to 8 x 6 feet in 10 years, eventually to 15 x 10 feet.
The large, pure white flowers, up to 4 inches wide, appear mid-summer until autumn frost.

* photo taken on Sep 29 2013 in Ellicott City, MD

* photo taken on July 24 2014 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Aug 3 2014 @ U.S. National Zoo, Wash., DC

* photos taken on July 5 2015 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 9 2015 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Apr 20 2017 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on July 7 2017 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 25 2017 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Sep 8 2017 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on July 30 2021 in Columbia, MD

'White Pillar'
Fast growing and columnar in habit, reaching up to 3.3 x 1.5 feet in 1.5 years, 5 x 2 feet in 2 years, eventually to 16 x 4 feet. It makes a great plant for a summer privacy hedge.
The leaves, up to 3.7 x 2.4 inches in size, are deep green.
The semi-double flowers, up to 4 inches wide, are pure white.

* photo taken on Sep 12 2021 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Oct 25 2021 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Sep 15 2022 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Sep 28 2023 in Columbia, MD

'Woodbridge'
The single flowers are red-pink with a red center.

* photos of unknown internet source

* photos taken on June 30 2013 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC

* photos taken on Aug 4 2013 in Bayfield, Ontario

* photos taken on July 11 2014 in Washington, DC

* photo taken on July 25 2015 @ Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario

* photos taken on Aug 22 2020 in Ellicott City, MD

'Violet Claire'
Flowers are blue-purple and double.

TROPICAL HIBISCUS

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis ( Chinese Hibiscus )
An evergreen, fast growing, shrub to small tree, reaching up to 10 feet or more ( much less in planters and containers ) that is grown in subtropical to tropical regions around the world. The Chinese Hibiscus is assumed to be native to tropical southern China.
Some records include: largest on record - 40 x 20 feet with a trunk diameter of 1 foot; fastest recorded growth rate - 4 feet.
The toothed, oval leaves, up to 6 x 3.5 inches, are luxuriant glossy deep green.
The single or double flowers, ranging from 4 to 12 inches across, are borne all year in mild climates.
Hardy zones 9 - 12, it may sustain freeze damage above ground in zone 9, it may also be attempted as a perennial on sheltered sites in zone 8. This Hibiscus prefers full sun to partial shade on moist, fertile, well drained soil with a PH below 6. It is moderately salt tolerant but not drought tolerant. Tolerant of temporary flooding. Prune in very early spring before new growth begins. Propagation of cultivars is from softwood cuttings taken during late spring. This article is only includes a brief summary on tropical hibiscus, for anybody looking for the best and most exotic cultivars, I recommend searching Erick Reshetnikov in the Ukraine on facebook.

* photos of unknown internet source








* photos taken on June 10 2013 in Columbia, MD

* historic archive photos

'Red Hot'

* photos taken @ U.S. Botanical Garden, Wash., DC on Aug 25 2014

'The President'
Large, bright-pink ( with deep red-pink center ) flowers.

'Variegata'

* photos taken on June 2 2016 in Columbia, MD

Hibiscus tiliaceus

'Variegata'

* photos taken on June 19 2023 @ Hershey Gardens, Hershey, PA

RELATED COLD HARDY PLANTS

Kitabela vitifolia ( Yugoslav Hibiscus )
A huge, fast growing perennial from the Malva family that is native to Yugoslavia and forms a great clump up to 15 feet across of tall stems up to 10 feet in height originating from a massive rootstock.
The large, deep green, Maple-shaped leaves are 5 or 7 lobed and up to 7 x 7 inches in size.
The pink-white flowers, borne mid to late summer, are up to 1.5 inches wide.
Hardy north to zone 3 in sun or partial shade on just about any soil.

* photos taken on Aug 25 2011 @ Scott Arboretum, Swarthmore College, PA



Kosteletzkya virginica ( Seashore Mallow )
A large, clumping perennial, reaching up to 8 x 6 ( rarely over 6 x 4 ) feet, that is native to rich moist soil or shallow water in the southeastern U.S. ( from eastern Texas to Long Island, NY; south to southern Florida ). It is late to emerge during spring.
The palmately-veined, coarsely-toothed, triangular leaves, up to 6 inches in length, are deep green.
The abundant, large, single, 5-petalled flowers, up to 3 inches across, are borne over a period lasting up to 6 weeks during late summer to mid autumn ( sometimes blooming as early as June in milder parts of its range ). They are pink to reddish-pink in color. They attract butterflies. Hardy zones 6 to 11 on permanently moist to moist, well drained soil. It thrives in full sun in marshes and salt marshes.

* Robert H. Mohlenbrock @ USDA SCS. 1991. Southern wetland flora

* USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

* historic archive photo

'Immaculate'
White flowers, otherwise same as the species.

Sida hermaphrodita ( Virginia Fanpetals )
A rhizomatous perennial, reaching up to 13 feet in height, that is native to sandy and rocky shorelines in the eastern U.S. ( from northwest Indiana to southeast Michigan to the north shore of Lake Erie to New York State to Massachusetts; south to northern Kentucky to northeast Tennessee to central Virginia ). Endangered in the wild, it is already absent from much of its natural range and continues to decline due to habitat destruction and competition with invasive plants such as Phragmites. It is already extinct in Tennessee and nearly so in Ontario where it remains near Tillsonburg and Grimsby. It has much potential as a cultivated crop. It is highly nutritious and makes for great cattle feed just as Alfalfa does. Plantations if Virginia Fanpetals are also very long-lived, up to 20 years or sometimes more. It also has potential for bio fuel and is harvested during the winter after stems have dried.
The deeply 5 to 7 palmately-lobed leaves, up to 8 x 5 inches in size, are mid-green.
The white flowers, up to 1 inch wide, are borne in terminal clusters from mid-summer to mid-autumn. The flowers are valuable to honey bees and honey production.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 ( tolerating as low as -31 F ) in full sun on moist, sandy soil. It can tolerate temporary drought. It can be grown from seed or cuttings.

* USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database