Hibiscus ‘Cranberry Crush’ (Rose Mallow)

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.

• Typically grows up to 4 ft. tall (120 cm) with a spread of 4-5 ft. (120-150 cm).
• Thrives in full sun in average, medium to wet soils. Tolerates some light shade but best flower production and disease resistance occur in full sun. Prefers consistently moist, organically rich soils. Site in locations protected from wind to minimize the risk of wind burn.
• Plant in perennial borders for dramatic summer blooms. Great along streams or ponds, in bog gardens or in rain gardens.
• Keep an eye out for blight, canker, rust, leaf spots, aphids, scale, whiteflies and Japanese beetle. Deer resistant.
• Deadhead spent flowers to maintain a neat appearance.
• Cut down in spring before new growth appears.
• It is best to plant Hibiscus in the garden before the heat of the summer arrives, and should be heavily mulched the first winter.