Hibiscus Blackberry Merlot

We absolutely love this nativar rose mallow Hibiscus because it will give your yard a tropical appeal. In a single growing season it bursts into a 3-4’ tall and wide shrub. The green maple like leaves are gorgeous on their own, but soon you realize this is simply a backdrop for color. Large bright green buds emerge, then explode into 7-8” sports car red blooms. These blooms fade quickly but continue to emerge and stay with the plant from midsummer to fall. The symmetry, the shape and the size of these blooms… I mean look at the picture. Words are simply not enough. ‘Blackberry Merlot’ was selected because the blooms will cover the plant from ground-level up rather than just appearing at the top like some cultivars of this species. Makes a great specimen plant, or alternative to shrubs in the garden. Plant one or a few and you won’t be disappointed.

How we ship Hibiscus - Rose Mallow

Hibiscus are planted in the spring and grown into sizable 3 gallon plants through one year. We sell them locally through the summer and fall, into the next spring, once we feel we've added good value to the size of the plant, we will ship them after one year of growth bare root until they emerge from dormancy. Hibiscus always emerge late so this gives us a spring window for online sales. You will receive the equivalent of a 3 gallon potted plant in a bag with moist material. It should be potted or planted within the first few days of receiving it.

Photo Credit: Walters Gardens

General care for any tree or shrub is easy, but like any living thing will require your attention. Please educate yourself and follow these simple rules.

Hibiscus Blackberry Merlot

Caring for hibiscus is not difficult, but the plants do require some maintenance. Site selection is important, so plant in an area that receives lots of sun, but also will remain sufficiently moist. Keeping hibiscus well watered will result in the largest and fullest flowers and foliage. Occasional deadheading is recommended to keep the plant looking its best, but isn’t strictly necessary. It is best to plant hibiscus before the heat of summer arrives to give it time to establish and a thick layer of mulch is recommended to ensure soil moisture is maintained. As always, we recommend a hardwood mulch, because it is simply the best for retaining moisture and only improves as it is refreshed each year. Be aware that hibiscus is one of the last plants to arrive each year - so you’ll probably think it is dead and freak out a little bit, but be patient and your patience will be rewarded. Hibiscus is a target for Japanese beetles, since beetle numbers vary from year to year, be prepared to treat them or pick them off regularly.