Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ in a Minute
Episode Archive

Episode #318 | Original Air Date: May 19, 2021

Related Resources

• Ask IFAS: Hibiscus coccineus Scarlet Rose Mallow, Texas Star Hibiscus, Swamp Hibiscus
• Gardening Solutions: Hibiscus

Transcript

One hibiscus native to Florida is known as the scarlet rose mallow or swamp mallow. This upright herbaceous perennial can reach a height of 4 to 8 feet and has large gorgeous deep-red flowers that appear in mid- to late summer.

The swamp mallow is often used as a specimen plant in the landscape but may go dormant in the winter. It can also be used around ponds or streams. But while the swamp mallow is native to wetland areas -- which is where its common name comes from -- it is tolerant of somewhat drier soils.

This hibiscus requires full sun or partial shade. It can be propagated by seed or division.

Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ in a Minute is a production of the University of Florida’s Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Program, IFAS Extension, and WUFT-FM in cooperation with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.