Hibiscus moscheutos 'Mars Madness' PP27838 (Rose Mallow)

• Attracts: Bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds are drawn to the nectar-rich blooms.

• Wildlife Resistant: Somewhat resistant to deer, but young plants may still be browsed.

• Foliage Season: Spring through fall.
• Flowering Season: Mid to late summer through early fall (July to September).
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 4-9

• Borders and hedges
• Pollinator gardens
• Rain gardens or moist areas
• Containers
• Focal points in landscapes

• Color: Dark green to deep purple foliage with a glossy sheen.
• Form: Heart-shaped, deeply lobed leaves that add texture and contrast to the bright flowers.
• Fall Interest: Foliage remains attractive until the first frost.

• Color: Large, vivid deep red to magenta flowers with darker red centers.
• Form: Enormous, saucer-shaped blooms, up to 8-9 inches across, with slightly ruffled petals.
• Bloom Time: Blooms from mid-summer through early fall, lasting several weeks.
• Fragrance: Not fragrant.

• Planting Time: Best planted in spring or fall for optimal root establishment.

• Soil Requirements: Prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It thrives in slightly acidic to neutral soils.

• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as it was in the nursery pot, with the crown at or just above soil level.

• Spacing: Space plants 4-5 feet apart to accommodate their mature size and ensure good airflow.

• Timing: Prune in late fall or early spring to remove old, dead stems.
• Method: Cut the plant back to about 6-12 inches above the ground in late fall or early spring. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage new blooms during the growing season.

• Watering Frequency: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots. Once established, Mars Madness prefers consistently moist soil and needs regular watering, especially during hot, dry periods.

• Soil Moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Ideal for areas near water features or in rain gardens.

Full sun for best flowering and foliage color. It can tolerate light shade, but full sun is essential for optimal growth and bloom production.

Hibiscus 'Mars Madness' is typically not grown for harvest, as it is an ornamental perennial. However, if you wish to collect seeds, allow the large flowers to fade and form seed pods. These pods will mature and turn brown in late summer to early fall. You can harvest the pods once they are dry and begin to split. Open the pods carefully and collect the seeds, which can be dried and stored in a cool, dry place for sowing the following season. Note that seedlings may not grow true to the parent plant if open-pollinated.

• Fertilization Time: Fertilize in early spring and again in mid-summer to encourage lush growth and abundant blooms.

• Fertilizer Type: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or compost to promote strong growth and flowering.

• Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Keep mulch away from the crown to prevent rot.

• Drought Tolerance: Mars Madness prefers consistent moisture and is not particularly drought-tolerant. Regular watering is essential, especially during dry periods.

• Pests and Diseases: Generally pest-free, though aphids and Japanese beetles may occasionally feed on the foliage. Neem oil or insecticidal soap can help manage infestations.

Pollinated by bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Flowers may produce seed pods after blooming, but Mars Madness is primarily grown for its ornamental flowers.

• Echinacea (Coneflower)
• Rudbeckia (Black-eyed Susan)
• Salvia
• Ornamental Grasses