Top Hardy US Native Hibiscus Plants for Your Garden

There are several hundred species of Hibiscus worldwide, of which 31 are native to the United States. Prized for their huge, flamboyant flowers, they add exotic, tropical punch in the garden, patio or containers. Though they conjure up images of the tropics, some of these native hibiscus can withstand cold winter temperatures.

All you need to know about Hardy Native Hibiscus

Plant Family

Hibiscus is a genus of flowering plants in the Malvaceae family, which includes popular plants such as Alcea (hollyhock), Malva (mallow), Tilia (linden tree), and Abelmoschus esculentus (okra).

Species

There are approximately 31 species and sub-species of hibiscus native to the United States, of which six are hardy. Among them are Hibiscus moscheutos (Hardy Hibiscus or Rose Mallow), Hibiscus laevis (Halberd-Leaved Rose Mallow), Hibiscus lasiocarpos (Woolly Rose Mallow), Hibiscus coccineus (Texas Star Hibiscus or Scarlet Rose Mallow), Hibiscus aculeatus (Comfortroot), and Hibiscus grandiflorus (Swamp Rose Mallow).

Appearance

Hardy native Hibiscus are perennials or shrubs that can grow from 3 feet (90 cm) to 15 feet (450 cm) tall, depending on the species.

Hardiness

While many tropical hibiscus require warm climates, hardy native species can thrive in USDA Zones 4-9, withstanding temperatures as low as -30°F (-34°C). In areas subjected to harsh winters and snow, they will die back to the ground in winter, coming back in the spring.

Flowers

These hibiscus varieties are celebrated for their large, trumpet-shaped flowers, often in pink, red, or white shades. They can be as small as 3-5 inches (7-12 cm) and as huge as 8 inches (20 cm) – these Hibiscus flowers are amazing conversation pieces!

Blooming

Depending on geographic area, some Hibiscus species start blooming in spring (Hibiscus grandiflorus, Hibiscus laevis, Hibiscus aculeatus), while others exhibit their spectacular flowers from mid-late summer to fall. Flowers last just one day, but so many buds form that the plant appears perpetually in flower.

Uses

These plants are ideal for adding an exotic touch to perennial borders, cottage gardens, bog gardens, rain gardens, or along ponds and streams. They are also excellent for creating colorful, flowering hedges and can be grown in containers for patios.

Wildlife

The large, bright, trumpet-shaped blooms attract butterflies, bees, or hummingbirds to the garden. Hibiscus is generally not a preferred food source for deer or rabbits. However, if other food sources are scarce, they may nibble on the plant.

Pests and Disease

Native hibiscus are not bothered by many pests or diseases. Aphids or Japanese beetles may feed on the foliage. Various fungal diseases, such as leaf spot, rust, or root rot may develop when the plant is subject to excessively moist conditions.