August 26, 2024| Education, Environment
By: Laurie Kane
One of the most striking plants in our native gardens, the Swamp Rose Mallow is currently in bloom. As a member of the malvaceae family, this native species thrives effortlessly in our mass-planting garden, where it attracts bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies. Its vibrant pink flowers draw the eye and put on quite the show! Although each blossom lasts only for a day, new flowers continue to emerge throughout the season.
Swamp Rose Mallow (Hibiscus moscheutos) has heart-shaped leaves and large flowers. This native resembles tropical hibiscus. The showy red, white, or pink flowers reach 5-8” diameter. The shrub-like plant grows 3’ to 7’ tall and flowers prolifically from mid-summer through the end of the season. It does best in full sun but will tolerate partial shade. Swamp Rose Mallow prefers rich, evenly moist soil and is a good choice for low, wet areas and near the edge of water. Native Americans used the leaves and roots to treat lung and urinary ailments. Swamp Rose Mallow is a popular nectar source for butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds. Its tall stems provide over-wintering sites for beneficial insects.
We invite you to visit our native plant gardens at 125 Landing Road, Landing, NJ, to see these buzzworthy blooms firsthand. We hope you will be inspired to incorporate native plants into your yard or garden, supporting local wildlife and contributing to a healthier environment!
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| Swamp Rose Mallow |
