The common rose-mallow or hibiscus has always been one of the showiest perennials, but recently new hybrids have been developed with blooms of larger size and clearer colors.
These new hybrids have huge blooms, some measuring 8 inches across. The plants are bushy and grow 4’ to 5’ feet high.
These hybrids are equally effective, whether planted in groups for a hedge or as a single specimen in the border.
The hibiscus is also well adapted to waterside plantings, such as along the banks of a stream or on the sides of a lily pool.
New Varieties Of Hibiscus
Among the new varieties are:
- CLOWN, with lustrous white blooms striped with vivid pink;
- CRIMSON WONDER, with blooms of bright vermilion that are particularly conspicuous when seen against an evergreen hedge;
- FRESNO, with warm satiny pink blooms that are unusually large and fine textured; and
- SATAN, of slightly shorter habit, has deep glowing red blooms.
When these superior hybrids are in bloom, they are majestic.
Hibiscus Moscheutos
Hibiscus Moscheutos, the species from which the new hybrid varieties were developed, is a native of swampy areas from Massachusetts south to Florida and west to Missouri.
Like the wild form, the new hybrids prefer a moist but well-drained location. They also prefer rich soil and full sun.
Plants are available at many large nurseries. They should be set out in the fall or spring (they don’t start into growth until late spring) and should be spaced 2′ feet apart.
Mallow Family
The mallow family is a very large one, including:
- Common rose-mallow
- The tropical hibiscus
- The hollyhock, Althaea rosea, is so commonly grown along walls and fences and at the back of the garden.
- Okra or gumbo, a vegetable that is especially popular in the South
- Rose of Sharon, Hibiscus syriacus, a shrub growing to 12’ feet and popular for its midsummer bloom
- Lavatera and Sidalcea resemble miniature hollyhocks, with their dainty spikes of rose, pink or cerise blooms.
44659 by Martha Pratt Haislip