Hibiscus 'Starry Starry Night'

Hibiscus 'Starry Starry Night': Freckled Pink Blooms Over Near-Black Leaves

Near-black leaves topped with pale pink flowers splattered in darker speckles, like a painter got excited and flicked the brush. 'Starry Starry Night' is a gallery piece that DOESN'T CHARGE ADMISSION.

Plant Characteristics:

• Botanical Name: Hibiscus hybrid
• Common Name: Rose Mallow, Hardy Hibiscus
• Height: 105–120 cm (3.5–4 ft)
• Spread: 105–120 cm (3.5–4 ft)
• Flowers: Pale pink with darker pink speckles and veins, 18–20 cm (7–8 in) across
• Bloom Time: Midsummer to early fall, peaking in late summer (July to September)
• Foliage: Broad, near-black, maple-like leaves in an upright clump
• Plant Patent: USPP 27,901

Where to Plant: Use it as a focal point in a sunny border, or in the middle of a large bed where the dark leaves contrast with lighter neighbours. It handles damp, heavy soil, which makes it useful in rain gardens and low spots.

Companion Plants: Astrantia 'Star of Fire' carries burgundy flowers at 60 cm from June through August, a rich partner for the pink. Chrysanthemum 'Mary Stoker' follows on with yellow flowers from August into October, keeping colour going after the hibiscus. Geranium 'Boom Chocolatta' spreads purple flowers at 61 to 66 cm from June into August. All of them want sun to partial sun.

Plant Care: Plant in full sun for the most flowers; part sun works, with fewer blooms. Give it moist, fertile soil and keep it watered. Hardy hibiscus wilt and drop buds when they dry out, so a deep soak during summer dry spells pays off. A layer of mulch helps hold moisture. It is one of the last perennials to wake up in spring, sometimes not until late May or early June. Mark the spot so nobody plants on top of it. Once it starts, it grows fast. In spring, before new growth appears, cut last year's woody stems back to about 15 cm (6 in) with loppers or a saw. Mulch heavily its first winter. It rarely needs dividing and prefers to stay put. Watch for Japanese beetles in July.

History: 'Starry Starry Night' was introduced by Walters Gardens of Zeeland, Michigan, in 2015, from a cross of 'Crown Jewels' and 'Midnight Marvel'. Hardy hibiscus are bred largely from Hibiscus moscheutos, the swamp rose mallow, a wetland wildflower that reaches its northern edge in southwestern Ontario.

Final Thoughts: Hang it in full sun, step back and accept compliments like you planned this. FRAMING NOT INCLUDED.