### Hardy Hibiscus (Rose Mallow, *Hibiscus moscheutos*) #### **Description** Hardy hibiscus (*Hibiscus moscheutos*), commonly known as Rose Mallow, is a herbaceous perennial native to wetlands and marshy areas in North America. Known for its show-stopping flowers, it produces large, striking blooms up to 8-12 inches (20-30 cm) in diameter. These flowers come in a range of colors, including white, pink, red, and bi-colored varieties, often with a contrasting center. The plant's foliage varies from green to bronze-tinted, depending on the cultivar. Varieties like 'Southern Belle' are particularly popular for their vigorous growth and enormous, showy flowers. #### **How It Grows** - **Height Spread:** Hardy hibiscus grows 3-7 feet (90-210 cm) tall and 2-4 feet (60-120 cm) wide, forming an upright, bushy habit. - **Zones:** Thrives in USDA hardiness zones 5?9. - **Bloom Time:** Blooms from mid-summer to early fall, providing late-season interest. #### **Where to Grow** - **Sunlight:** Prefers full sun for the best flower production, but it can tolerate partial shade. - **Soil:** Thrives in rich, well-draining soil that is consistently moist. This plant tolerates wet soils and is ideal for rain gardens, near ponds, or in areas prone to occasional flooding. - **Location:** Excellent for garden borders, cottage gardens, or as a focal point in perennial beds. #### **Care** 1. **Watering:** Keep the soil evenly moist, especially during the growing season. Hardy hibiscus is not drought-tolerant and will wilt quickly if the soil dries out. 2. **Fertilizing:** Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer to encourage lush growth and prolific blooms. 3. **Pruning:** - Cut back dead stems to the ground in late fall or early spring as new growth emerges. - Pinch back stems in late spring to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. 4. **Mulching:** Apply a 2-3 inch (5-8 cm) layer of mulch to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature. 5. **Winter Protection:** In colder zones, apply extra mulch around the base for winter insulation. #### **Starting From Seed** 1. **Seed Collection:** Collect seeds from mature seed pods in the fall. Allow the pods to dry and split naturally, then harvest the seeds. 2. **Stratification:** Hardy hibiscus seeds have a hard coat and benefit from scarification (lightly sanding or nicking the seed coat) and cold stratification. - **Scarification:** Gently rub the seeds with sandpaper to weaken the seed coat. - **Stratification:** Place seeds in moist sand or peat moss and refrigerate for 4-6 weeks. 3. **Sowing Indoors:** - Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. - Sow seeds in seed-starting trays filled with a well-draining potting mix. Cover lightly with soil, as they require some light to germinate. - Maintain a temperature of 70-75F (21-24C) and keep the soil moist. Germination takes 1-4 weeks. 4. **Transplanting:** When seedlings are 2-3 inches tall and the danger of frost has passed, harden them off for a week and transplant them into the garden. Space plants 3-4 feet (90-120 cm) apart. 5. **Direct Sowing:** In warmer regions, seeds can be directly sown in the garden after the last frost. With proper care, *Hibiscus moscheutos* rewards gardeners with breathtaking blooms and vibrant foliage, making it a showpiece in any garden! =s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s==s=s=s=s=s=s=s= Seed Shipping: Flat Rate Low Shipping fee- no matter how many other seeds you order! Add this item to your cart and keep shopping-- at https://www.ebay.ca/usr/okiger-2i55iwk =s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s==s=s=s=s=s=s=s= Shipping of Seeds and Cuttings: Orders are shipped via Canada Post Mail unless otherwise specified. Some items are shipped without tracking to keep costs low. This is the most economical option. Canada Post is incredibly reliable, but can be slow. If you require tracking or a faster delivery please message before ordering. We try to ship any live plants on MONDAYS or TUESDAYS as a precautionary measure to avoid delays over the weekend and ensure the viability of live plant orders. Weather may be a contributing factor in the processing of our orders and will occasionally cause some delay. We will ship seeds anywhere in the world, however, please make sure you check with your country's customs office to be sure that they are allowed in. We will not be held responsible for orders held, confiscated and/or destroyed by customs. Please note this and make sure you understand before you buy it. If you have a question or if you are unclear about shipping policies please contact us. We welcome questions! Contact us before, after, or during any transaction and you will receive a reply ASAP. Thanks for visiting! Don't forget to bookmark us!