Hibiscus moscheutos ‘Luna Red’ (Hardy Hibiscus)

Hibiscus moscheutos ‘Luna Red’ – Hardy Hibiscus: An In-depth Look

Hibiscus moscheutos ‘Luna Red’ (Hardy Hibiscus) is a compact and well-branched perennial noted for its huge, rich deep burgundy red flowers, 6-8 inches across (15-20 cm). Blooming continuously from mid-summer to fall, the gigantic flowers are adorned with conspicuous, protruding, creamy-white tubes of stamens. Each flower lasts 1 day, but new flowers open each day in rapid succession until late in the season. The foliage of broadly ovate, dark green leaves is whitish beneath.

Hibiscus moscheutos ‘Luna Red’ is part of the Luna series, which was developed to offer gardeners a more compact, bushy plant with large, showy flowers. The series includes several color varieties, but ‘Luna Red’ is particularly prized for its deep, velvety red blooms.

Native: This hibiscus plant is not a native species but a cultivated hybrid. Its parent, Hibiscus moscheutos, commonly known as hardy hibiscus or rose mallow, is native to marshes, swamps, moist meadows, and woods from Ontario and Massachusetts south to Ohio, Indiana, Alabama, and Florida. Hibiscus 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 hardy hibiscus is a herbaceous perennial, meaning it dies back to the ground in the winter and regrows each spring. The plant has a bushy, compact habit, typically forming a well-rounded mound. It is a fast-growing plant with sturdy, upright stems supporting the large, showy flowers.

Size: Typically grows to 2-3 feet tall (60-90 cm) and 24 inches wide (60 cm)

Flowers: The flowers are its most striking feature. Each bloom is a deep, rich red with a velvety texture, measuring up to 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) across. The flowers comprise five broad, overlapping petals that create a slightly cupped shape, showcasing a prominent central column of stamens. These blooms are typically produced in abundance, covering the plant from top to bottom, which creates a continuous display of color throughout the blooming season.

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: The foliage consists of broadly ovate, dark green leaves with a slightly coarse texture. The leaves have a whitish underside, subtly contrasting the rich green tops. This dense foliage forms a lush backdrop that enhances the vibrant red flowers, adding depth and texture to the plant.

Hardiness: This Hibiscus is hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 5 to 9 and tolerant to heat and humidity.

Uses: This hardy hibiscus is primarily used for ornamental purposes. It is ideal for garden beds, borders, and large containers. In addition, it is well-suited for rain gardens, water features, and other moist areas of the garden where its love of water can be fully appreciated. The plant’s compact size makes it suitable for small gardens.

Wildlife: The large, colorful flowers attract bees, butterflies and hummingbirds. The plant’s abundant nectar and pollen make it a valuable food source for these beneficial insects.

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 slightly alkaline soil; enrich with compost before planting.

Watering: Requires regular watering, especially during dry periods; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Keeping this hibiscus watered will result in larger flowers and lush foliage.

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.