Hibiscus 'Edge of Night'

Hibiscus 'Edge of Night': Sultry Blooms on Smouldering Foliage

Dark and dramatic, Hibiscus 'Edge of Night' commands attention with its intensely saturated blooms and near-black foliage. Enormous, ruffled flowers in deep bubblegum pink—up to 20 cm wide—stand in vibrant contrast to the jet-purple, dissected leaves. Blooming steadily from midsummer into early fall, this Summerific® selection delivers bold colour, outstanding texture, and undeniable garden drama in a compact, manageable form.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 90–100 cm
• Spread: 90–120 cm, with a dense, rounded habit
• Flower Colour: Bright pink with overlapping petals
• Flowering Period: Mid to late summer
• Foliage: Dark purple to nearly black; deeply cut and glossy
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Requirements: Moist, fertile, well-drained soil; appreciates consistent moisture

Uses and Benefits: Hibiscus 'Edge of Night' is a striking feature in sunny borders, courtyard beds, or pollinator gardens. Its bold colour contrast, dense habit, and late-season bloom time make it ideal for pairing with ornamental grasses and warm-hued perennials. Despite its tropical appearance, it is reliably hardy and easy to grow in temperate climates. Its flowers draw bees and hummingbirds, while the dark foliage anchors garden designs with a bold, architectural feel.

Companion Plants: Pair Hibiscus 'Edge of Night' with Panicum 'Prairie Fire', whose red-tipped blades mirror the hibiscus blooms while adding movement and fall colour. Include Echinacea 'Sombrero Sangrita' for layered pink and red hues, and contrast with the smoky blue plumes of Perovskia 'Crazy Blue' to cool the palette and echo the dark foliage.

Care Instructions: Plant in full sun with rich, moisture-retentive soil. Water regularly, especially in hot or dry conditions. Cut back stems in late fall or early spring. Mulch annually to maintain soil moisture and protect the crown in colder regions. This variety may emerge late in spring—be patient, as growth is reliably vigorous once it begins.

History: Hibiscus 'Edge of Night' is a Walters Gardens introduction, bred for Proven Winners® as part of the Summerific® series. Developed through selective hybridization of native North American species, it was chosen for its compact size, rich foliage colour, and vivid contrast between flower and leaf.

Final Thoughts: Smoky, sultry, and unmistakably bold, Hibiscus 'Edge of Night' is a late-summer stunner that balances elegance with intensity. Perfect for modern borders or statement plantings, it delivers high drama with low effort.