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Hibiscus ‘Summer in Paradise’ (Rose Mallow)

Rose Mallow 'Summer in Paradise', Hardy Hibiscus 'Summer in Paradise'

Hibiscus 'Summer in Paradise', Rose Mallow 'Summer in Paradise', Shrub Althea 'Summer in Paradise', Flowering Shrub, Red flowers, Red Hibiscus
Hibiscus 'Summer in Paradise', Rose Mallow 'Summer in Paradise', Shrub Althea 'Summer in Paradise', Flowering Shrub, Red flowers, Red Hibiscus

Hibiscus ‘Summer in Paradise’ – Rose Mallow: An In-depth Look

Very floriferous, Hibiscus ‘Summer in Paradise’ (Rose Mallow) is a compact, bushy, herbaceous perennial with extremely large, brilliant cerise red flowers, up to 7-8 inches across (17-20 cm). The eye-catching blossoms open from abundant ruby-red flower buds which cover the plant all the way up the stems, making it bloom for much longer than most Hibiscus. Blooming continuously from midsummer to early fall, each flower lasts about one day and stands out against the foliage of beautiful, maple-like, green leaves adorned with olive green edges. 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 3-4 feet tall and wide (90-150 cm).

Flowers: This rose mallow features large, brilliant cerise red flowers, up to 7-8 inches (17-20 cm) across, that create a striking display. The eye-catching blooms open from abundant ruby-red buds.

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 beautiful, maple-like green leaves with olive green edges. This lush, dense foliage provides a rich backdrop that enhances the vivid cerise red flowers. The leaves maintain their attractive color and texture throughout the growing season, contributing to the plant’s 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.

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 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.

Requirements

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 3' - 4' (90cm - 120cm)
Spacing 48" - 60" (120cm - 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
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Alternative Plants to Consider

Hibiscus hamabo (Yellow Hibiscus)
Hibiscus Paraplu Violet® (Rose of Sharon)
Hibiscus Paraplu Pink Ink® (Rose of Sharon)
Hibiscus syriacus White Pillar® (Rose of Sharon)
Hibiscus syriacus Red Pillar® (Rose of Sharon)
Hibiscus syriacus Purple Pillar® (Rose of Sharon)

Recommended Companion Plants

Echinacea (Coneflower)
Salvia (Sage)
Sedum (Stonecrop)

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While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.
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Requirements

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 3' - 4' (90cm - 120cm)
Spacing 48" - 60" (120cm - 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 Plants
Do I Need?
Explore Great Plant Combination Ideas
Hibiscus
Guides with
Hibiscus
Not sure which Hibiscus to pick?
Compare Now

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