Perennial Hibiscus
Texas Star Hibiscus is a frost-tolerant heirloom hibiscus with brilliant scarlet blooms that light up gardens from early summer through late fall. This cultivar of Hibiscus coccineus grows 3 to 6 feet tall and thrives in full sun across hardiness zones 6 through 6, making it one of the hardiest hibiscus varieties for northern gardeners. From seed to first bloom takes 98 to 112 days, rewarding patient growers with months of continuous flowering that attracts pollinators throughout the season.
36-48 inches apart
Full Sun
Moderate
6-6
72in H x 36in W
Perennial
Moderate
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The star of this hibiscus is its ability to bloom reliably in cooler climates where most tropical hibiscus fail. Hardy enough to survive zone 6 winters and drought-tolerant once established, it demands moderate water and thrives on neglect compared to its fussier cousins. The long bloom window spanning June through November means your garden stays vivid when many other flowers are fading.
Texas Star Hibiscus is grown as an ornamental flowering plant, valued for its vibrant summer-to-fall blooms in gardens and landscapes. Its pollinator-attracting flowers make it a favorite for cottage gardens and native plant landscapes where supporting butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds is a priority.
Start seeds indoors in sterile germinating mix 8 weeks before your last spring frost to prevent fungal problems. Keep soil temperature around 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Scarify seeds by chipping or filing the seed coat, then soak in warm water for about an hour before sowing. Seeds typically sprout in 7 to 21 days.
Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last spring frost has passed. Hardening off is recommended to acclimate indoor-started plants to outdoor conditions.
Direct sow after the last spring frost in warmer areas, particularly zones 7 and above. Scarify seeds as described above and surface sow on moist soil.
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