Rose Mallow
Hibiscus moscheutos
Rose mallow is a native perennial plant with white or pink flowers that bloom from mid-summer through early autumn.
Appearance
The rose mallow has white or pink hibiscus flowers with five petals. The flowers have a deep pink or burgundy center with a yellow stamen and grow to 6 to 8 inches in diameter. They bloom from mid-summer through early autumn.
The rose mallow's leaves are green and wedge-shaped with velvety undersides. Leaves can grow to 8 inches in length. The plant has round stems with tiny hairs and a broad, round base. Rose mallow grows to 7 feet tall.
Reproduction and Life Cycle
About one month after flowering, seed capsules mature and turn brown. Seed pods eventually split open, allowing seeds to scatter.
Did You Know?
- The rose mallow is also known as the swamp mallow, marsh mallow and marsh hibiscus.
- It has been used medicinally in the form of tea to treat digestive and urinary tract inflammations.
- There are many rose mallow cultivars that people have bred for desired traits. They come in various colors, such as hot pink and ruby red.
Sources and Additional Information
- Native Plants for Wildlife Habitat and Conservation Landscaping: Chesapeake Bay Watershed – U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
- PLANTS Database: Hibiscus moscheutos – USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service
- Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center: Hibiscus moscheutos – The University of Texas at Austin
- PlantFiles: Rose Mallow, Swamp Mallow – Dave’s Garden