Rose Mallow
Hibiscus moscheutos

Rose mallow is a native perennial plant with white or pink flowers that bloom from mid-summer through early autumn.

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Broad white petals with a dark pink center and light yellow stigma.
Rose mallow flowers bloom from mid-summer through early autumn. (Photo by Will Parson/Chesapeake Bay Program)

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Appearance

The rose mallow has white or pink hibiscus flowers with five petals. The flowers have a deep pink or burgundy center with a yellow stamen and grow to 6 to 8 inches in diameter. They bloom from mid-summer through early autumn.

The rose mallow's leaves are green and wedge-shaped with velvety undersides. Leaves can grow to 8 inches in length. The plant has round stems with tiny hairs and a broad, round base. Rose mallow grows to 7 feet tall.

Reproduction and life cycle

About one month after flowering, seed capsules mature and turn brown. Seed pods eventually split open, allowing seeds to scatter.

Did you know?

  • The rose mallow is also known as the swamp mallow, marsh mallow and marsh hibiscus.
  • It has been used medicinally in the form of tea to treat digestive and urinary tract inflammations.
  • There are many rose mallow cultivars that people have bred for desired traits. They come in various colors, such as hot pink and ruby red.

Sources and additional information

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