Scarlet Hibiscus, Swamp Hibiscus,

Scarlet Rosemallow

Hibiscus coccineus Walt.

hi-BISS-cuss cox-INN-ee-us

Malvaceae

Explanation of name: Hibiscus is an ancient name for members of the Hibiscus Family.  Coccineus means scarlet.

Natural range: Southern U.S. Florida native, in swamps

Recognition: Hibiscus with deeply incised palmately lobed leaves and large scarlet flowers

Landscape uses: Showy with enormous scarlet flowers, mostly for wet sites and bog gardens.  May be grown in “normal” garden conditions if watered during dry months

Internet sources: http://www.floridata.com/ref/h/hibisc_c.cfm

http://www.mobot.org/gardinghelp/plantfinder/plant.asp?code=D270