I love it when you are least expecting it and encounter something that just knocks your socks off. At the Colusa Farmer's Market a couple of weeks ago, I stopped by to see what our friend Geneva at Garden Gleanings had that was new and exciting. In front of her booth I was stunned by the specimen she had to offer – the ‘Midnight Marvel' hardy hibiscus. This is not the picky tropical hibiscus we all struggle to keep alive in our non-tropical climate – this is the hardy hibiscus that sleeps underground during the winter and emerges in the spring to greet us with nearly dinner plate sized blooms. The dark, almost black, foliage and red flowers of this plant will lend an air of drama to your garden. The shiny, deep cut leaves are a good substitute for the easily sunburned Japanese maple.
It's an easy care perennial that will bloom from midsummer to fall in full sun in moist but well-drained soil. It can get 42-48 inches tall and 48-54 inches wide. If it gets too much sun the bronze/black leaves will have a green cast.
If you are concerned that it didn't survive the winter, BE PATIENT! It is notoriously slow to emerge and will reward you for your endeavor!!
Submitted by Cynthia White