Scarlet Rose Mallow (Hibiscus Coccineus)

Scarlet Rose Mallow

Features and Characteristics

Hibiscus coccineus is a vigorous, sturdy, erect, woody-based perennial that typically grows 3-6′ tall and features showy, hollyhock-like, 5-petaled, bright scarlet red flowers (3-5″ diameter) borne in the upper leaf axils of the plant over a long, mid-summer to early fall bloom period. Each flower has a prominent and showy center staminal column. Hemp-like, palmately compound, deep green leaves (5-6″ wide). Sometimes commonly called swamp hibiscus because it is native to marshes and swamps in Alabama, Georgia and Florida.

Genus name is the old Greek and Latin name for mallow.

Specific epithet means scarlet.

Care and Maintenance

Grow in average, medium to wet soil in full sun to part shade. Best in full sun or light shade. Plants may become leggy with diminished flowering in too much shade. Tolerates summer heat and humidity, but soil should be kept moist throughout the growing season. Only reliably winter hardy to USDA Zone 6, so it should be grown in a protected location with a good winter mulch in the St. Louis area.

Scarlet Rose Mallow (Hibiscus Coccineus) Requirements

Hardiness zone	6 - 9
Sun light	Full Sun To Part Shade
Water	Medium To Wet
Maintenance	Medium

Common Problems

Some susceptibility to blight, canker, rust, leaf spots, aphids, scale, whiteflies and Japanese beetle. Taller plants may need staking.

Uses

A large plant for the rear of the perennial border, mixed border or courtyard. Also effective when grouped in moist locations such as along the edge of a pond or stream.

Scarlet Rose Mallow (Hibiscus Coccineus) Details

Common name	Scarlet Rose Mallow
Botanical name	Hibiscus Coccineus
Plant type	Herbaceous Perennial
Family	Malvaceae
Hardiness zone	6 - 9
Water	Medium To Wet
Maintenance	Medium
Flower color	Deep Red
Flowering period	June - September
Height	3 - 6 Ft.
Width	2 - 3 Ft.