Scarlet Rose-mallow
Hibiscus laevis
Last reviewed: July 2026
Hibiscus laevis (Scarlet Rose-mallow) is a native wetland perennial producing large red hibiscus flowers from July through September. This moisture-loving plant thrives in full sun across much of the eastern and central United States.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Scarlet Rose-mallow as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
36"–72" H × 24"–48" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, FL, GA and 22 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Deer
Resistant (per Prairie Moon Nursery)
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Scarlet rose-mallow produces spectacular large red hibiscus flowers up to 6 inches across during summer months. This tall native perennial thrives in moist conditions and creates a dramatic focal point with its showy blooms. The plant dies back completely in winter but returns reliably each spring.
Growing Scarlet Rose-mallow
Grow Scarlet Rose-mallow in full sun and high water. Mature plants reach 36 to 72 inches tall and spread 24 to 48 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Scarlet Rose-mallow is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- Dies back completely in winter leaving bare ground
- Requires consistent moisture to prevent wilting
Wildlife value
The large, nectar-rich flowers are magnets for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds throughout the long blooming season. Seeds also provide food for waterfowl and other birds in fall.
Common questions
- When does Hibiscus laevis bloom?
- Scarlet Rose-mallow blooms from July through September, producing large showy red flowers throughout the late summer months.
- What pollinators visit Hibiscus laevis?
- Bees and butterflies are primary pollinators of Scarlet Rose-mallow, attracted to its large nectar-rich flowers.
- Where is Hibiscus laevis native?
- Scarlet Rose-mallow is native to wetlands and marshy areas across 26 states, from the Great Lakes region south to the Gulf Coast and from the Atlantic seaboard west to Kansas and Texas.
- What growing conditions does Hibiscus laevis prefer?
- This native hibiscus thrives in full sun with consistently moist to wet soil conditions, making it ideal for rain gardens, pond edges, and other wetland plantings.
- Is Scarlet Rose-mallow toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Scarlet Rose-mallow as toxic to livestock.
- Is Scarlet Rose-mallow HOA-friendly?
- Scarlet Rose-mallow is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
See Scarlet Rose-mallow in a real native yard
Scarlet Rose-mallow is one of the natives used in these Patch Vision yard designs. Tap any one to see the before and after.
The after image is a Patch Vision preview. It replants the real yard photo with native plants chosen to fit that yard's ecoregion, sun, and HOA strictness.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Scarlet Rose-mallow? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz