Hibiscus ‘Midnight Marvel’ (Rose Mallow)

Noted for its dark foliage and long blooming season, Hibiscus ‘Midnight Marvel’ (Rose Mallow) is a compact, well-branched, herbaceous perennial with extremely large, deep scarlet red flowers, up to 9 in. across (22 cm). The eye-catching blossoms open from abundant, glossy, black-red flower buds which cover the plant, making it bloom for much longer than most Hibiscus. Blooming continuously from midsummer to fall, each flower lasts about one day and stands out against the thick and leathery, deep wine purple foliage of maple-like leaves. Perfect backdrop or centerpiece for a sunny border.

• Typically grows up to 4 ft. tall (120 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.