What Is Hibiscus Coccineus?

Hibiscus coccineus, also known as scarlet hibiscus or scarlet rose mallow, can best be described as a shrub-like perennial plant that adds bold, red color to any landscape. Gardeners likely will find the scarlet hibiscus in warm-weather climates, where temperatures reach above 40° Fahrenheit (or approximately 4.5° Celsius). For the best results of full blooms, the ornamental shrub should be planted in bright light and wet conditions. Once the hibiscus flowers bloom, they may be used mostly in ornamental settings.

The crimson red scarlet hibiscus comes from a family of wildflower plants that are distinguished by their shapes, among other features. The Malvaceae, or mallow, family consists of plants that bloom alternating lobed or toothed leaves, as well as flowers that come with five petals of various colors. In addition to the hibiscus coccineus, approximately 1,500 species of herbs and shrubs comprise the Malvaceae family. Some examples of hibiscus relatives include hollyhock flowers, cotton, and okra.

Warm weather helps the hibiscus coccineus thrive. Considered to be a native North American plant, the hibiscus grows naturally in the swamps, rivers, and marshes of the southeastern United States, including Florida, Alabama, and Georgia. The hibiscus may be native to the United States, but it can grow anywhere with a warm, tropical climate in USDA hardiness zones 7 to 11. Temperatures must range from 0° Fahrenheit (approximately -15° Celsius) to 40° Fahrenheit (4.5° Celsius) or warmer for the hibiscus coccineus to thrive.

Gardeners must follow specific cultivation requirements for the scarlet hibiscus to grow successfully. Seeds or roots may be used to plant the perennial in moist soil conditions with some flooding. The hibiscus coccineus works well with acidic clay, sandy, or loamy soils, and may need additional watering during dry spells. The perennial hibiscus also fares well in bright, full sunlight with only slight shading.

Planting areas must also provide ample space for the scarlet rose mallow to grow upward as well as outward. The University of Florida Extension recommends spacing the plants no more than 36 inches (approximately 91 cm) apart, whether they bloom as tropical trees, bushes, or shrubs. By spring, the average scarlet hibiscus grows up to 8 feet (approximately 2.4 m) tall and spreads out to 4 feet (approximately 1.2 m) wide. The scarlet red flowers usually debut by the summer season. The leaves and flowers of the hibiscus tree die back by the winter season, only to reappear during the following spring.

The scarlet hibiscus serves several decorative purposes. Some gardeners may plant the perennial near ponds or streams to accent the landscape. Others may opt to plant the scarlet rose marrow as a border along flowerbeds, where it can attract hummingbirds and butterflies.

Hibiscus coccineus, commonly referred to as the Scarlet Rosemallow or Texas Star Hibiscus, is a striking perennial plant known for its vibrant red, star-shaped flowers. Native to the southeastern United States, it thrives in wetlands and along stream banks, adding a splash of color to the green landscape.

Hibiscus coccineus flourishes in moist to wet soils and typically inhabits swampy areas, pond margins, and wet meadows. It is well-suited to bog gardens and rain gardens due to its preference for full sun and high water tolerance, making it an excellent choice for water-wise landscaping in suitable climates.

The Scarlet Rosemallow can reach impressive heights, often growing between 3 to 6 feet tall, with some specimens even surpassing 8 feet under optimal conditions. Its height, coupled with its showy flowers, makes it a dramatic focal point in any garden setting where space and moisture conditions permit.

While Hibiscus coccineus is relatively low-maintenance, it does have specific needs to thrive. It requires ample sunlight and consistently moist soil. During dry spells, supplemental watering may be necessary. It's also cold-hardy in USDA zones 6 through 9, but in colder regions, a layer of mulch can help protect the roots over winter.

The blooming season for Hibiscus coccineus typically spans from mid-summer to early fall. Each spectacular flower lasts only a day or two, but the plant continues to produce new blooms over several weeks, providing a long-lasting display of color throughout the season.

Indeed, Hibiscus coccineus is a valuable plant for local ecosystems. Its nectar-rich flowers attract pollinators such as hummingbirds and butterflies, while its dense foliage offers shelter for small wildlife. Additionally, it serves as a larval host plant for certain moth species, contributing to biodiversity in its native habitat.