Hibiscus x 'KOPPER KING' swamp mallow, hardy hibiscus

Swamp mallow and its hybrids have been sought after plants for the past few years now. They are perennials with sturdy stems that have large, tropically looking flowers. Kopper King is a variety with large, dinner-plate-size flowers that can be anything from 20 up to 30 cm across. They are pink and white with an attractive deep burgundy red eye in the centre. Deciduous leaves are large, coppery crimson red to burgundy red.

The plant is dependent on regular water and feed supply. Use fertilizers with enough phosphorus for abundant flowering, or any other quick-release fertilizers where nitrogen is not predominant. Any fertilizing has to stop by end September.

For healthy growth and profuse flowering it needs a sunny location with a lot of moisture which can be achieved by good mulching. The soil has to be fertile and permeable, never let it dry out in summer. Hardy to about -34°C (USDA zone 4). Cut back the plant only a few centimetres above ground level in spring.

Last update 07-07-2010