This week we are highlighting the beautiful swamp hibiscus (Muenchhusia coccinea), also known as scarlet rosemallow, or scarlet hibiscus. This showy wildflower is found in many FL counties.

Typically, swamp hibiscus are found in open wet areas including the edges of streams, swamps, and marshes. It grows in full sun to light shade, and prefers moist to wet soils. Unfortunately, it is not considered very salt tolerant, so it is best planted in habitats that don’t receive regular salt spray or inundation.

It blooms in the summertime, producing stunning five-petaled red flowers. The flowers can get up to 6” in diameter. Each flower only lasts one day, but not to fear! This perennial wildflower is a prolific bloomer and will produce many flowers throughout the summer. The leaves are 5-6 inches long and palmately lobed (a common trait for plants in the mallow family!). The plant itself can get up to 8 ft tall with a 2-5 ft spread.

Swamp hibiscus is deciduous and will die-back in the late fall or early winter. As a perennial, it will re-sprout in the spring. Make sure to leave the dead stalks of swamp hibiscus standing as native bees will utilize them for nesting habitat!

Swamp hibiscus makes an excellent addition to wetland pollinator gardens. The showy red flowers are particularly attractive to hummingbirds and butterflies. Additionally, it can attract the rose-mallow bee which is a hibiscus specialist!

Incorporate swamp hibiscus into your wetland garden to support native wildlife and add a beautiful summer pop of color.

For more information:

Florida Wildflower Foundation:

https://www.flawildflowers.org/flower-friday-muenchhusia-coccinea

Florida Native Plant Society:

https://www.fnps.org/plant/muenchhusia-coccinea#gsc.tab=0

Atlas of Florida Plants:

https://florida.plantatlas.usf.edu/plant/species/3189