30 Hibiscus moscheutos Seeds - Swamp Rose Mallow Crimson-Eyed Rosemallow

Hibiscus moscheutos, commonly known as Swamp Rose Mallow or Crimson-Eyed Rosemallow, is a striking native perennial that produces large, showy flowers in mid to late summer. The blooms feature broad petals in shades of pink, white, or red, often with a contrasting crimson eye, and can reach up to 6 inches across. This robust plant adds a bold tropical touch to temperate gardens and is equally at home in rain gardens, bog gardens, or mixed borders. Its tall, upright habit and tolerance for wet soils make it a standout choice for moist areas and pollinator-friendly landscapes.

Swamp Rose Mallow is a herbaceous perennial that dies back to the ground in winter and reemerges in spring. It is native to wetlands and stream banks of eastern North America, where it provides habitat and forage for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. The large, nectar-rich flowers are particularly attractive to hummingbirds and native bees. Whether grown as a specimen plant or massed along a pond edge, Hibiscus moscheutos delivers dramatic late-season color with minimal fuss.

Plant Features

• Large, dinner-plate-sized blooms up to 6 inches across
• Flowers in shades of pink, white, or red with a crimson center
• Attracts pollinators including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds
• Tolerates wet soils and is ideal for rain gardens and boggy areas
• Native perennial that returns year after year

Growing Information

• Botanical Name: Hibiscus moscheutos
• Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Moist to wet, well-drained soil; tolerates clay
• Water Requirements: Moderate to high; keep soil consistently moist
• Growth Habit: Upright, clump-forming
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-9
• Bloom Season: Mid to late summer
• Mature Height: 3-6 feet
• Spacing: 24-36 inches apart

Planting & Care

To grow Swamp Rose Mallow from seeds, start indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost or sow directly outdoors after the danger of frost has passed. Scarify the seeds by lightly nicking the hard seed coat with a file or sandpaper, then soak them in warm water for 24 hours to improve germination. Sow seeds about 1/4 inch deep in a moist seed-starting mix, keeping the soil consistently warm (70-75°F) and moist but not waterlogged. Germination can take 2-4 weeks. Once seedlings have several true leaves and all danger of frost has passed, harden them off and transplant to the garden.

Choose a location with full sun to partial shade and moist, rich soil. Water regularly during the first growing season to help establish a deep root system. Mature plants are relatively low-maintenance but benefit from consistent moisture, especially during dry spells. Apply a layer of mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Cut back dead stems in late winter or early spring to encourage fresh growth. Fertilize lightly in spring if desired. With proper care, Hibiscus moscheutos will reward you with spectacular blooms year after year.

What's Included

30 Hibiscus moscheutos seeds.