Hibiscus moscheutos 'Balhiblu' 'LUNA BLUSH®' swamp mallow

LUNA BLUSH® swamp mallow is possibly the most attractive variety out of the Luna® range bred in 2000. In in this case the petals are really blushing, showing pink shades towards the margins, fading to white nearer the centre. There is a small, dark burgundy red eye from which rise a long pistil with numerous light beige anthers. It is a compact, dense growing perennial with sturdy stems and bushy growth. Deadheading of spent flowers and regular fertilizing from early August will encourage formation of new flower buds. Deciduous leaves are heart-shaped, medium green, and turn yellow in autumn. They do not have lobes like other hibiscus species. Plant patent No. PP15054 was issued in 2004.

Swamp mallow and its hybrids are commonly suited for regular garden soil of any pH, just make sure it does not dry out. In hot and dry summers it is dependent on regular watering and feed supply. Use fertilizers with enough phosphorus for abundant flowering, or any other quick-release fertilizers where nitrogen is not predominant. Any fertilizing has to stop by end September. Still, nitrogen-based fertilizer is useful when the plant wakes up from dormancy in mid spring, but should not be used longer than 8 weeks. Hardy hibiscus emerges very late, sometimes as late as in late May.

For healthy growth and profuse flowering it needs a sunny location with a lot of moisture which can be achieved by good mulching. The soil has to be fertile and can be clay and boggy, never let it dry out either in summer or during dry winters - its fleshy roots need some moisture also in winter. Hardy to about -23°C (USDA zone 6). Protect the bottom of the stems from direct sunlight with plenty of mulch or fir branches during winter. Cut back the plant some 7 cm above ground level in spring after all frosts.

Last update 13-08-2008; 26-09-2019