Hardy Hibiscus, Dark Mystery

Hibiscus 'Dark Mystery'

Height: 60-66in
Spread: 60-66in
Zone: 4-9
Exposure: Full sun to part shade
Bloom Time/Color: July-September; pink
Uses: Massing, specimen, rain gardens
Maintenance: Medium
Other: Deer resistant

Hardy hibiscus are the result of native hibiscus species crossed together and add a touch of "tropical" to Iowa landscapes. These semi-woody perennials are noted for their dinner plate sized blooms and can quickly reach heights (growing an inch or more per day) of four feet or more. Although the blooms only last for a day, they produce hundreds in quick succession over a long bloom period, often blooming from mid-summer to early fall. 'Dark Mystery' was selected for its 8-9" pink blooms with red centers and large, serrated purple leaves. For best performance and color, site hardy hibiscus in average to moist, well-drained soils in full sun. Plants are slow to emerge in spring (not appearing until mid-June in Iowa for most cultivars), but grow rapidly once the soil warms. Cut back stems to 3-4 inches above ground in late fall to make it easier to find the hibsicus before it comes out of dormancy again in June.