Cranberry Hibiscus

We saw a Hibiscus acetosella growing at a local botanic garden and just loved it. Can you tell us more about it?

Known by many common names including False Roselle, Maroon mallow, Red-Shield hibiscus and Cranberry hibiscus and the scientific name of Hibiscus acetosella. This plant does produce lots of seed and can make a surprise appearance in areas where the seeds may have been carried in on soil, brush, gardeners’ shoes or by wildlife. The plant is hardy in zones 8 to 11 acting as a large shrub or small tree in the southern portion. It dies back to the ground in the northern part of its hardiness range keeping it smaller. Those gardening further north can grow this beauty as an annual. You will get the best color foliage and flowers if grown in full sun. It is a pest resistant plant that tolerates sandy soil.