Create Your Garden

Hibiscus ‘Cranberry Crush’ (Rose Mallow)

Rose Mallow 'Cranberry Crush', Hardy Hibiscus 'Cranberry Crush', Summerific Collection

Hibiscus var. 'Cranberry Crush', Rose Mallow 'Cranberry Crush', Hardy Hibiscus 'Cranberry Crush', Summerific Collection, Flowering Shrub, Red flowers, Red Hibiscus
Hibiscus var. 'Cranberry Crush', Rose Mallow 'Cranberry Crush', Hardy Hibiscus 'Cranberry Crush', Summerific Collection, Flowering Shrub, Red flowers, Red Hibiscus
Hibiscus var. 'Cranberry Crush', Rose Mallow 'Cranberry Crush', Hardy Hibiscus 'Cranberry Crush', Summerific Collection, Flowering Shrub, Red flowers, Red Hibiscus

Hibiscus ‘Cranberry Crush’ – Rose Mallow: An In-depth Look

Noted for its long blooming season, Hibiscus ‘Cranberry Crush’ (Rose Mallow) is a vigorous, compact, bushy herbaceous perennial with large, slightly cupped, deep scarlet-red flowers, up to 8 in. across (20 cm), with nicely overlapping petals. Blooming continuously from midsummer to fall, each flower lasts about one day and stands out against the glossy deep green, leathery foliage of maple-like leaves, adorned with purple overtones. The striking blossoms are produced in succession, from the top to the bottom of the plant, rather than just at the top like some other cultivars. Perfect backdrop or centerpiece for a sunny border. Great for containers too.

Native: This hibiscus plant is not a native species but a cultivated hybrid. Its parentage includes various hibiscus species, one of them being the North American native Hibiscus moscheutos, also known as Rose Mallow. It belongs to the mallow family, Malvaceae, which includes popular flowering plants such as Alcea (hollyhock), Malva (mallow), Tilia (linden tree), and Abelmoschus esculentus (okra).

Plant Type and Habit: This rose mallow is an upright, well-branched, bushy herbaceous perennial. The overall shape of the plant is well-rounded, making it an excellent choice for adding structure and color to garden beds and borders. This hibiscus is known for its vigorous growth, filling out quickly during the growing season.

Size: Typically grows up to 4 feet tall (120 cm) with a spread of 4-5 feet (120-150 cm).

Flowers: This rose mallow features large, slightly cupped, and deep scarlet-red, measuring up to 8 inches (20 cm) across. The petals are nicely overlapping, creating a rich, full appearance.

Blooming Time: This hibiscus plant blooms from mid-summer through to early fall. The flowers typically last a day but are continuously replaced by new blooms, ensuring a prolonged period of vibrant color.

Foliage: It features glossy, deep green foliage with a leathery texture and maple-like shape. The leaves are adorned with subtle purple overtones, adding depth and contrast to the plant’s vibrant flowers. The dense foliage remains attractive throughout the growing season, providing a rich backdrop that enhances the overall ornamental appeal.

Hardiness: This Hibiscus is hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 4 to 9.

Uses: This hardy hibiscus is primarily used for ornamental purposes. It is ideal for garden beds, borders, and large containers. Its vibrant flowers make it a popular choice for adding a dramatic splash of color to landscapes.

Wildlife: The large, colorful flowers attract bees and butterflies.

Toxicity: Hibiscus is usually considered relatively not toxic. However, as with many plants, it is best to avoid ingestion, particularly in large quantities.

Deer and Rabbits: 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.

Invasiveness: This hybrid hibiscus is not invasive. It is suitable for gardens without the risk of becoming invasive.

Benefits: The main benefits include its stunning visual appeal, extended blooming period, and attraction to pollinators. Its large, colorful flowers enhance garden aesthetics and provide ecological value by supporting beneficial insects.

Growing and Caring for Hardy Hibiscus

Planting: Plant in spring. Ensure the root ball is level with the soil surface. Site in locations protected from wind to minimize the risk of wind burn.

Light: It can be grown in full sun to partial shade. For optimal blooming, it prefers full sun with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.

Soil: Thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0); enrich with compost before planting.

Watering: Requires regular watering, especially during dry periods; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring and again in mid-summer for vigorous growth.

Pruning and Maintenance: Deadheading will improve the plant’s appearance. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth appears to remove dead stems and encourage bushier growth.

Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch (5-7 cm) layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture, control weeds, and protect roots in winter.

Propagation: Propagate through stem cuttings or division; best done in spring or early summer.

Pests and Diseases: Watch for aphids, Japanese beetles, caterpillars, mealybugs, scale insects, spider mites, thrips, and whiteflies. Monitor for fungal diseases like leaf spot and rust. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.

Requirements

Hardiness 4 - 9
Climate Zones 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, H1
Plant Type Perennials
Plant Family Malvaceae
Genus Hibiscus
Common names Hibiscus, Rose Mallow
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Summer (Mid, Late), Fall
Height 3' - 4' (90cm - 120cm)
Spread 4' - 5' (120cm - 150cm)
Spacing 60" (150cm)
Maintenance Low
Water Needs Average
Soil Type Clay, Loam
Soil pH Acid, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained
Characteristics Showy
Tolerance Deer, Wet Soil
Attracts Bees, Butterflies
Garden Uses Beds And Borders, Bog Gardens, Patio And Containers, Ponds And Streams, Rain Gardens
Garden Styles Informal and Cottage
How Many Plants
Do I Need?
Explore Great Plant Combination Ideas
Hibiscus
Guides with
Hibiscus
Not sure which Hibiscus to pick?
Compare Now

Alternative Plants to Consider

Hibiscus hamabo (Yellow Hibiscus)
Hibiscus Paraplu Violet® (Rose of Sharon)
Hibiscus Paraplu Pink Ink® (Rose of Sharon)
Hibiscus syriacus White Pillar® (Rose of Sharon)
Hibiscus syriacus Red Pillar® (Rose of Sharon)
Hibiscus syriacus Purple Pillar® (Rose of Sharon)

Recommended Companion Plants

Echinacea (Coneflower)
Sedum (Stonecrop)
Salvia (Sage)

Find In One of Our Guides or Gardens

A Late Season Border Idea with Hibiscus and Grasses
A Summer Border Idea with Hibiscus and Roses
A Colorful Summer Border Idea with Hibiscus and Grasses
Do Deer Eat Hibiscus?
Dinner Plate Hibiscus: The Perfect Showstopper for Your Garden
Types of Hibiscus: From Hardy to Tropical, Find Your Perfect Match
How to Propagate Hibiscus for Stunning Flower Displays
Hibiscus Leaves Turning Yellow: Reasons and Remedies
Hibiscus Flower Colors to Add a Splash of Beauty to Your Garden
How to Pick the Perfect Hibiscus Plant for Your Garden or Container
31 Best Bright-Light Indoor Plants to Transform Your Home
40 Tropical Plants for Your Outdoor Garden
30 Tropical Flowers for Your Garden or as House Plants
Small Trees and Shrubs That Bloom In Fall
Stunning Blue Flowers to Enhance Your Garden’s Beauty
Add a Splash of Color: Perfect Flowering Shrubs for Small Gardens
35 Flowering Shrubs That Thrive in Full Sun
Rose of Sharon: How to Grow and Care with Success
Tropical Hibiscus
Top Hardy US Native Hibiscus Plants for Your Garden
Hardy Hibiscus: How to Plant, Grow and Care
Native Plant Alternatives to Hibiscus syriacus (Rose of Sharon)
While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.
Buy Plants

Requirements

Hardiness 4 - 9
Climate Zones 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, H1
Plant Type Perennials
Plant Family Malvaceae
Genus Hibiscus
Common names Hibiscus, Rose Mallow
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Summer (Mid, Late), Fall
Height 3' - 4' (90cm - 120cm)
Spread 4' - 5' (120cm - 150cm)
Spacing 60" (150cm)
Maintenance Low
Water Needs Average
Soil Type Clay, Loam
Soil pH Acid, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained
Characteristics Showy
Tolerance Deer, Wet Soil
Attracts Bees, Butterflies
Garden Uses Beds And Borders, Bog Gardens, Patio And Containers, Ponds And Streams, Rain Gardens
Garden Styles Informal and Cottage
How Many Plants
Do I Need?
Explore Great Plant Combination Ideas
Hibiscus
Guides with
Hibiscus
Not sure which Hibiscus to pick?
Compare Now

Gardening Ideas

Plant Calculator

How many Hibiscus ‘Cranberry Crush’ (Rose Mallow) do I need for my garden?

Input your garden space dimensions

Your Shopping List

Plant Quantity
Hibiscus ‘Cranberry Crush’ (Rose Mallow) N/A Buy Plants

Please Login to Proceed

You Have Reached The Free Limit, Please Subscribe to Proceed

Subscribe to Gardenia

To create additional collections, you must be a paid member of Gardenia
  • Add as many plants as you wish
  • Create and save up to 25 garden collections
Become a Member

Plant Added Successfully

You have Reached Your Limit

To add more plants, you must be a paid member of our site Become a Member

Update Your Credit
Card Information

Cancel

Create a New Collection

Sign Up to Our Newsletter

    You have been subscribed successfully

    Join Gardenia.net

    Create a membership account to save your garden designs and to view them on any device.

    Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.

    Join now and start creating your dream garden!

    Join Gardenia.net

    Create a membership account to save your garden designs and to view them on any device.

    Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.

    Join now and start creating your dream garden!

    Find your Hardiness Zone

    Find your Heat Zone

    Find your Climate Zone