Holy Grail hibiscus blooming big
This has been the year of the hibiscus at my house, with tropical selections such as South Pacific Sipper, Monsoon Mixer, Hawaiian Big Kahuna and Fiesta. The past few weeks, however, it is the Holy Grail — a hardy hibiscus — that has been splendid. Holy Grail is part of Proven Winner’s Summerific series.
Holy Grail boasts dark-green foliage that has been aging to purple.
The blooms are deep red, darker in the center and reach 8 to 9 inches across. Expect your plants to reach 4 to 5 feet tall, and as wide. It is a profuse bloomer as every flush growth gives dozens of more bloom. I have three, and in all locations they are dynamic; doing well in any soil type.
The past few years, there has been a multitude of new, hardy hibiscus, not only hitting the market but winning awards, too. When you look at a tropical hibiscus blooming on your deck or patio, it is easy to conjure up visions of the Caribbean and the sounds of a steel band. Today’s perennial hibiscus varieties will do the same.
In my garden, I am using the plants as the backdrop to a habitat of pollinators. Perennial hibiscus will bring in bees, butterflies and hummingbirds, and one of their best traits is they are resistant to deer. For companions to the hibiscus, there are various salvias, Agastache or anise hyssop, coreopsis and rudbeckias.
Their requirements are much like those of other annuals. Whether you choose the perennial or tropical types, plant in well-drained, well-prepared beds and use a good layer of mulch to keep the soil evenly moist throughout the season. Drying out during bloom season leads to unhappy results.
When I say hardy hibiscus, I mean they will be perennial from zones 4 to 9, which means most of the country can relish in their beauty. Choose a site with plenty of sunlight. Morning sun and filtered afternoon light are just about perfect. The hibiscus blooms on new growth, so it is important to keep it growing vigorously throughout the season. Keep them well-fed and watered during dry periods.