JENNY'S GARDEN                                                             

Hibiscus moscheutos "Luna Red'
(Hardy Hibiscus, Rose Mallow, Swamp Hibiscus)

Origin:  Hybridizer, Leue  (2003)
Family:  Malvaceae
Light:  Sun-part shade
Height:  6-12'
Spacing: 6'
Blooms:  Red, large, 8" across, dinnerplate-size, mid-Summer
Foliage:  Herbaceous, deep green, smooth,
Soil:  Well-drained, mildly acidic, neutral, moist
Water:  Moderate
Uses:  Butterfly garden, hummingbird garden, bird garden, around ponds, wet garden
Propagatrion:  Seeds  (Direct sow after last frost), stem cuttings

Comments:  Hibiscus moscheutos 'Luna Red' or Hardy Hibiscus or Rose Mallow or Swamp Hibiscus is an eye-catching hardy perennial with an erect growth habit.  In mid-Summer, Hibiscus moscheutos 'Luna Red' produces wonderfully gorgeous, large, dinnerplate-sized, ornamental red blossoms, followed later by seed pods.  Butterflies, hummingbirds and bees are magnetized by the nectar-rich blossoms of Hardy Hibiscus Red Luna while birds have a fiesta at the seeds and helping to transport them.  Rose Mallow is easily propagated from seeds or stem cuttings.  It thrives best in well-drained, moist, acidic soil in a sunny to part shade environment.  Swamp Hibiscus has lovely deep green foliage. It is low maintenance and enjoys having wet feet so plant them in wet areas of the landscape, in ponds and around water fountains. Mass plant Hibiscus moscheutos 'Luna Red' for a spectacular display.  Frost will kill the top part of plant to the ground but will reemerge with a stronger growth next season.  Trim old stems in Spring for new growth to take place.  Foot traffic finds Hardy Hibiscus Red Luna fascinating and are in awe of the dinner-size flowers.  What a splendid beauty!

USDA Zones:  5-10