Hibiscus ‘Lilac Crush’ (Rose Mallow)

Hibiscus ‘Lilac Crush’ (Rose Mallow) is an upright, columnar, herbaceous perennial with extremely large lilac flowers, up to 7-8 in. across (17-20 cm), with overlapping petals. The eye-catching blossoms open from abundant flower buds which cover the plant all the way up the stems, making it flower for much longer than most Hibiscus. Blooming continuously from mid to late summer, each flower lasts about one day and stands out against the foliage of beautiful, maple-shaped, rich green leaves. Excellent at brightening up end of season gardens, this hardy hibiscus is a perfect backdrop or centerpiece for a sunny border. Great for containers too.

• Typically grows up to 5-6 ft. tall (150-180 cm) and 4-5 ft. wide (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. Keeping this hibiscus watered will result in larger flowers and lush foliage. 
• 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.