Part of the Summerific® Collection by Proven Winners®, Hibiscus 'Lilac Crush' Rose Mallow stands out as a striking herbaceous perennial that graces your garden with a profusion of blooms from midsummer to late summer. Unveiling 7- to 8-inch tropical-looking flowers set against rich green leaves, which resemble maple leaves, this captivating plant continuously produces ruffled blooms with a subtly shiny dark red eye and thick overlapping petals in a rare lilac hue. Delicately perched on slender branches, these nectar- and pollen-rich flowers provide sustenance for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
As a Hibiscus hybrid, commonly referred to as rose mallow, 'Lilac Crush' boasts a vigorous growth rate and an upright, columnar habit that remains sturdy and resistant to lodging. While slow to emerge in spring, it compensates by putting on an inch of new growth daily. Hibiscus is impressive when showcased as a specimen in the garden or when taking center stage as a "thriller" in a container, but its impact is enhanced when massed or grouped in borders, landscapes, or near ponds and streams. Its versatility extends to being a stellar choice for bog gardens and rain gardens.
This cold hardy plant thrives in sunny to partly shady locations, growing best in fertile, organically rich, moderately moist, well-drained soil, yet it exhibits tolerance for poor and acidic soils. Maintaining adequate water levels ensures optimal growth, and a prudent spring pruning enhances its visual appeal. Adding a layer of heavy mulch in winter adds to its resilience. Notably, 'Lilac Crush' is deer resistant.
A native plant, rose mallow is indigenous to North America. Native plants are not only beautiful but also environmentally friendly. Naturally adapted to the climate and soil conditions of the region, they thrive without fertilizers or extra watering, once established. They also act as natural pest controls, reducing the need for pesticides in the garden. Landscaping with native plants promotes biodiversity and provides shelter and quality food for wildlife and pollinators, bringing gardens to life.
