I planted this Hibiscus acetosella in a big, salvaged industrial tank in July, replacing some Verbena bonariensis ‘Lollipop’ that finished unexpectedly early, and it grows so much better in the steadier conditions of a container than in the darwinian struggle of my summer garden. Before this year, it never really sank in that this hibiscus actually thrives in the warm days and cool nights of autumn, because it had previously always withered away in too-dry soil by September. Perennial in zone 10, fast growing enough to be grown as an annual in colder zones. The fleeting blooms are sparsely produced and incidental to the Japanese Maple-like leaves, which are the primary motivation for growing this hibiscus. The flowers come in the same brooding color as the leaves and are barely noticeable unless backlit by the morning sun. Five blooms were open this morning. Such startling discoveries add a jolt of excitement to the morning garden browse.
Now that’s a some Hibiscus , I’ve never really cared for them …till now !
Don’t miss the last series of the Swedish ‘ The Killing’ on BBC 4 , starting Sat.
Not Swedish…DANISH
Duly noted, Linda — you’re in charge of programming here!
I’m with Linda…never really was a Hibiscus fan…but I’ve seen these pop up a few times in gardens…and I love that color…like you said, like a gorgeous, temporary Japanese Maple!
I’d never seen one in bloom before. We sometimes have grown them for the foliage. Such a lovely color – say, does that make this note the scarlet letter?
Scott, unless you knew its name, it doesn’t look much like a hibiscus. It really does like steady moisture, and I know your summers are almost as dry as ours, so that’s something to consider.
Peter, if it does make this note the scarlet letter, then I guess I’m Hester Prynne — hey, wait a minute…
that’s a beauty! I love the color of the flowers on that plant, well I just love the whole plant and wouldnt’ be without it.
Funny that I’ve grown this plant for the foliage a number of years and have never seen it bloom. I didn’t realize it could. Great shot of the bloom.
Nice! I’m not a major hibiscus fan, but this one looks a bit more like an abutilon, which I love. And the foliage is gorgeous.
What an awesome bloom of Hibiscus acetosella.. Loved it.. Seems perfect for Floworld’s Fresh Flowers Gallery..! Lovely Pic..!