Hibiscus palustris
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Hibiscus palustris

Swamp Rose Mallow · Swamp Rosemallow · Sea hollyhock · Marshmallow · Hardy Hidiscus

Tier 2 Difficulty: medium Water: low Light: full_sun
Water every
7 days
Temperature
5–35 °C
Soil pH
6–8
Hardiness
Zone 5–9
Click count
715
Observations
82

Description

Source: leafsnap

Hibiscus palustris, commonly known as swamp rose mallow, is a perennial plant belonging to the Malvaceae family. Native to North America, it thrives in wetlands, marshes, and alongside ponds and streams. This plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and spread 3 to 4 feet wide. The leaves of Hibiscus palustris are dark green, heart-shaped at the base, and feature serrated edges. The flowers are striking, large (up to 6 inches in diameter) with five petals, varying in color from white to pink or red. They bloom from mid-summer through early fall. Hibiscus palustris is a crucial food source for many pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. It also provides habitat for various wildlife species, such as birds and small mammals. Historically, Native Americans used the plant for medicinal purposes, such as treating fever and inflammation. Early settlers utilized the roots as a substitute for tea or coffee. Overall, Hibiscus palustris is an attractive native plant offering ecological benefits while enhancing the beauty of wetland areas or gardens with moist soil conditions.

Care Guide

💧 Water Every 7 days
Suggested frequency: Every 7 days
☀️ Light Full sun

Hibiscus moscheutos subsp. moscheutos is native to well-lit, open settings where it flourishes in direct sunlight. It can endure some partial sun exposure, but its growth is most optimal in full sunshine. This plant, which is both annual and biennial, has a well-known affinity for sunlight.

Ideal: Full sun
🌡️ Temperature 5–35°C

Hibiscus moscheutos subsp. moscheutos exhibits a broad adaptability to various temperature environments, though certain combinations of heat and water conditions could still restrict its range. Optimal growth occurs in summer temperatures that are warm, supplemented with sufficient rain or watering. A longer span of cloudy, rainy weather or elevated temperatures could boost the chances of Hibiscus moscheutos subsp. moscheutos perishing. During the winter months, protection from cold weather can enhance the plant's chances of survival.

Ideal temperature: 5–35°C
💨 Humidity normal (40-60%)

This plant will thrive in moderate humidity, which is probably the level in your home. However, misting it a few times a week can be very beneficial. Make sure the room has good ventilation.

Humidity: normal (40-60%)
🪴 Soil 6-8
Soil pH: 6-8
🌱 Fertilizer

When the Hibiscus moscheutos subsp. moscheutos has largely blossomed, it is the appropriate period to commence fertilization once more. As soon as the flowers reach their highest production count, set off the fertilization process every three to four weeks, depending on the weather conditions. Once you notice a reduction in the production of new flowers from the Hibiscus moscheutos subsp. moscheutos, discontinue the fertilization since the plant does not require it if it isn't producing additional blooms.

🪴 Pot & Repot
✂️ Pruning
🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity

Characteristics

Plant Type
Herb
Life Cycle
Annual, Perennial
Genus
Hibiscus
Family
Malvaceae
Hardiness Zone
5-9
Mature Height
1.52 m to 2.44 m
Mature Spread
0.91 m to 1.52 m
Leaf Color
Green, Dark Green
Leaf Type
Deciduous
Flower Color
White, Pink
Flower Size
15.24 cm to 25.40 cm
Bloom Time
Summer, Early fall
Planting Time
Spring, Summer, Autumn
Harvest Time
Fall

Tags (6)

Common Names (6)

en Swamp Rose Mallow
en Swamp Rosemallow
en Sea hollyhock
en Marshmallow
en Hardy Hidiscus
en Twisted Hibiscus