Hibiscus 'Midnight Marvel'

Hibiscus 'Midnight Marvel': Crimson Afterglow

A dramatic presence in the summer garden, Hibiscus 'Midnight Marvel' stuns with its deep crimson blooms set against nearly black, maple-like foliage. The bold, ruffled flowers span up to 25 cm wide, opening continuously from mid-summer to early fall. This vigorous perennial hibiscus brings the drama of a tropical plant while thriving in Canadian climates. Its sultry foliage and long-lasting floral display create a magnetic focal point in sunny landscapes.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 120–150 cm
• Spread: 90–120 cm
• Flower Colour: Deep red
• Flowering Period: July to September
• Foliage: Dark burgundy-black, deeply lobed
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained soil; tolerates clay

Uses and Benefits: A showstopping choice for back borders, specimen plantings, and pollinator gardens. Its striking contrast of flower and foliage makes it ideal for bold design schemes. Reliable, deer-resistant, and beloved by hummingbirds and bees, 'Midnight Marvel' is both ornamental and ecologically valuable. Sturdy stems resist flopping even in wind or rain.

Companion Plants: Pair with Panicum 'Prairie Fire', Agastache 'Blue Fortune', and Veronicastrum virginicum to create a vivid, upright planting scheme that emphasizes colour contrast and pollinator support through the height of summer.

Care Instructions: Prefers consistent moisture and full sun. Cut back stems to 10–15 cm in early spring once growth emerges. Mulch to retain soil moisture and protect the crown. Apply a balanced fertilizer in late spring to support blooming. Avoid overly dry conditions.

History: Bred by Walters Gardens in Michigan, 'Midnight Marvel' is a cross between Hibiscus 'Summer Storm' and 'Cranberry Crush'. Released for its improved foliage colour and refined flower form, it combines the best traits of hardy hibiscus in a landscape-ready package.

Final Thoughts: Hibiscus 'Midnight Marvel' brings heat and elegance to the late-season garden—an irresistible fusion of tropical splendour and hardy performance that captivates with every crimson bloom.