This hardy hibiscus or rose mallow stole my heart this past summer. I am anxiously waiting to see the new stems emerge in the landscape later in the spring. In this post I am sharing a few of my favorite photos and short video featuring the Watermelon Ruffle Hibiscus.
About Watermelon Ruffle Hibiscus
This Hardy Hibiscus is characterized by its beautifully ornate flowers. The 7″ magenta pink blooms feature heavily ruffled petals, each ending in a puckered notch, adding to their unique charm. While they may emerge later in spring than most perennials, they are rapid growers, adding up to an inch of new growth daily. I couldn’t believe how big this perennial grew in just 2 seasons in my landscape. These can easily be used like a shrub in most any landscape.
Flowers on this indeterminate plant grow along the stem, resulting in more blooms earlier in the season compared to traditional varieties. The vibrant and textured flowers contrast beautifully with the dark green leaves that have a bronze hue.
Native to North America this perennial produce large, tropical-looking flowers even in zone 4. The large blooms excel at adding a pop of color to end-of-season gardens. The bees and other pollinators will thank you because they love this plant!
More Perennial Hibiscus
One of my favorite hibiscus to grow in my Ohio garden is the perennial or rose marrow.
I feel fortunate to have at least six different thriving varieties in my garden from summer to autumn.
Not to be confused with the rose of sharon or Hibiscus syriacus the blooms are much larger and the plant dies all the way back to the ground each year.
More On My Website
Below are a few of my favorite blog post featuring various hibiscus that I grow in Ohio. Keep in mind that they are not all rose marrow / perennial hibiscus.
If you are a grower you can find them at Walters Gardens. Home Gardeners be sure to check out your local garden center and let them know you are interested in finding this variety. I recently found this plant on White Flower Farm, Gardening Crossing, and Great Garden Plants online.
Late Winter Watermelon Ruffle Hibiscus
Here is an update to what my Watermelon Ruffle Hibiscus looks like during the late winter months.
Let’s Connect
In conclusion, I hope you consider adding one of these Watermelon Ruffle Hibiscus to your home garden. Reach out to me anytime with questions and comments.
Happy Gardening,
