Hibiscus coccineus 'Blaze Star'
 
Common Names: Scarlet Rose Mallow, Texas Star Hibiscus, Swamp Hibiscus, Blaze Star
 
Zones: 6–10
 
A bold, herbaceous perennial cultivar derived from the southeastern U.S. native Hibiscus coccineus, ‘Blaze Star’ dazzles with deeply lobed foliage and large, scarlet-red flowers shaped like five-pointed stars. Thriving in moist soils and full sun, it adds dramatic vertical interest to wetland gardens, rain gardens, and native borders. This selection is especially attractive to hummingbirds and butterflies.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Upright; clump-forming; dies back in winter
Height: Typically 5–8 ft (1.5–2.4 m); narrow vertical profile
Trunk: Herbaceous stems; green to reddish; smooth; unbranched
Leaves: Deeply lobed; palmate; bright green; up to 6 in. (15 cm) wide
Inflorescence: Large, star-shaped scarlet flowers; 5–6 in. (12–15 cm) across; bloom midsummer to fall
Fruit: Elongated capsules; split to release seeds; not typically ornamental
Ecology: Derived from wetland-native species; attracts pollinators; supports wetland restoration
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun
Watering: Moderate to high; prefers consistently moist soils
Soil: Loamy or silty; tolerates clay; thrives in wet conditions
Temperature: Tolerates –10 to 95°F (–23 to 35°C); optimal range 70–90°F (21–32°C)
Humidity: Moderate to high; adapted to humid subtropical zones
Propagation: By seed or division; cultivar may not come true from seed
Tolerance: Flood-tolerant; deer-resistant; suitable for pond margins and rain gardens
 
Landscape Use
Best suited for wetland restorations, rain gardens, native borders, and pollinator habitats. Its vivid blooms and upright form offer seasonal drama and ecological value. Pairs well with Lobelia cardinalis, Pontederia cordata, and Itea virginica in moisture-rich, wildlife-friendly designs.