Hibiscus Midnight Marvel is a stunning variety of Hibiscus moscheutos with deep burgundy foliage and large, vibrant pink flowers. This eye-catching plant adds dramatic color and texture to garden beds and borders, and attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies. It is easy to grow and low maintenance, thriving in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Hibiscus Midnight Marvel is also deer resistant, making it a great choice for gardens in areas with deer populations.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
This hibiscus plant is not a native species but a cultivated hybrid. Its parentage includes various hibiscus species, one of them being the North American native Hibiscus moscheutos, also known as Rose Mallow. It belongs to the mallow family, Malvaceae, which includes popular flowering plants such as Alcea (hollyhock), Malva (mallow), Tilia (linden tree), and Abelmoschus esculentus (okra).
This rose mallow is an upright, well-branched, bushy herbaceous perennial. The overall shape of the plant is well-rounded, making it an excellent choice for adding structure and color to garden beds and borders. This hibiscus is known for its vigorous growth, filling out quickly during the growing season.
It typically grows up to 4 feet tall (120 cm) and 4-5 feet wide (120-150 cm). The foliage is equally impressive, with thick, leathery, maple-like leaves in a deep wine purple hue. This rich, dark foliage provides a dramatic backdrop for the bright red flowers, enhancing their visual impact. The leaves maintain their color and texture throughout the growing season, adding depth and interest to the garden. This rose mallow features large, 9-inch (22 cm) deep scarlet red flowers that make a striking statement in the garden. The eye-catching blooms open from glossy, black-red buds. This hibiscus plant blooms from mid-summer through to early fall. The flowers typically last a day but are continuously replaced by new blooms, ensuring a prolonged period of vibrant color.
II. How to Grow and Care
Sunlight
It can be grown in full sun to partial shade. For optimal blooming, it prefers full sun with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Watering
Maintain moist soil for your Hibiscus Midnight Marvel, but be careful not to overwater it. Hibiscus can be susceptible to root rot, so avoid standing water around the plant. Watering once a week should be sufficient in most climates, but adjust as needed based on rainfall and temperature.
Soil
It thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0); enrich with compost before planting.
Fertilizing
Fertilize your Hibiscus Midnight Marvel every two to three weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing in the winter months, as the plant goes dormant.
Planting Instructions
- Choose a planting location that receives full sun or partial shade. Hibiscus Midnight Marvel prefers moist, well-draining soil, so ensure the planting area has good drainage.
- Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball of your plant.
- Mix a generous amount of compost or peat moss into the soil.
- Gently loosen the roots of the plant and place it in the hole.
- Backfill the hole with soil, packing it down gently.
- Water thoroughly.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Hibiscus Midnight Marvel, but if you want to shape the plant or keep it more compact, you can prune in late winter or early spring before the plant begins to grow.
Propagation
Propagate through stem cuttings or division; best done in spring or early summer.
Mulching
Apply a 2-3 inch (5-7 cm) layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture, control weeds, and protect roots in winter.
Pests and Diseases
Watch for pests such as spider mites, whiteflies, and aphids. Treat with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil if infestation occurs, and remove any affected leaves. Hibiscus can also be susceptible to fungal diseases such as rust, leaf spot, and blight. Proper watering and drainage can help prevent these diseases, and treating with fungicides may be necessary in severe cases.
III. Uses and Benefits
This hardy hibiscus is primarily used for ornamental purposes. It is ideal for garden beds, borders, and large containers. Its vibrant flowers make it a popular choice for adding a dramatic splash of color to landscapes.
