Hibiscus ‘Vintage Wine’ (Rose Mallow)

Hibiscus ‘Vintage Wine’ (Rose Mallow) is a densely upright, herbaceous perennial with large, brilliant scarlet-red flowers, up to 7 in. across (17 cm), adorned with a darker red eye. Their crinkled, overlapping petals unfurl as the countless, near-black buds open to become wide and slightly cupped. Blooming continuously from midsummer to fall, each flower lasts about one day and stands out against the foliage of dark green, heart-shaped leaves. The blossoms are produced from the top to the bottom of the plant, rather than only at the top like some older cultivars. Perfect backdrop or centerpiece for a sunny border. Great for containers too.

• Typically grows up to 4 ft. tall (120 cm) with a spread of 5 ft. (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.