Rose Mallow 'Cranberry Crush', Hardy Hibiscus 'Cranberry Crush', Summerific Collection
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.
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.
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 |
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 Hibiscus ‘Cranberry Crush’ (Rose Mallow) do I need for my garden?
Plant | Quantity | |
---|---|---|
Hibiscus ‘Cranberry Crush’ (Rose Mallow) | N/A | Buy Plants |
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