Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Hibiscus Moscheutos var. Palustris
Palustris Rose Mallow
- Family
- Malvaceae
- Height
- 48–84 inches
- Width
- 24–48 inches
- Flower color
- Soft pink with a crimson center
- Foliage color
- Grayish-green above; hairy-white below
- Bloom time
- Mid to late summer
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Wet to consistently moist soils
- Maintenance
- Low; cut back stems after frost
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 5–9
- Wildlife
- Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds; serves as a larval host for certain butterflies and moths
About this plant
Hibiscus moscheutos var. palustris is an herbaceous perennial that produces large, soft pink flowers with a deep red center. Blooming from mid-summer to early fall, its wide, open petals and prominent stamens create a bold display that attracts pollinators. Native to wetlands and marshes in eastern North America, this variety thrives in moist environments and has adapted to seasonal flooding.
Palustris Rose Mallow tolerates wetter conditions than many other hibiscus species, making it well-suited for rain gardens and pond edges. The foliage consists of broad, heart-shaped leaves with a slightly serrated edge, providing lush greenery throughout the growing season. Its ability to flourish in challenging conditions while producing showy, late-season blooms makes it a valuable addition to naturalistic and water-wise landscapes.
Works well in
Borders · Cottage Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Hummingbird Gardens · Rain Gardens
Companion plants
Astilbes · Foxgloves · Bergenias · Sedums · Columbines · Lungworts
Design tip
Summer flowers carry the middle of the season, so place it where the bed needs color once spring bulbs fade. It takes sun or light shade, which makes it useful along the changing light of a bed edge or a partly shaded border.
