Isn’t this a beauty? It’s called a Confederate Rose, or a Cotton Rose. But it really isn’t a rose. It’s a member of the hibiscus family. It isn’t Southern either—it hails from China!!
Hardy in zones 7-11, this deciduous shrub is grows up to 15 feet high and 10 across in areas where it doesn’t freeze. In places with frost, it grows more like a big perennial. Mine is only about four feet high after seven years. It dies down every winter and comes back from the roots in the spring. The leaves are large and have points, similar to a maple but not as pronounced.
There are single and double-flowering varieties available. Blossoms are quite large, 3-6 inches across, and can be white, red, or hot pink, like this one. Notice the beautiful pistil in the closeup!!
The Confederate Rose is low maintenance. Plant it in full sun or partial shade in well-drained soil. Even though it appreciates regular watering, it’s drought tolerant. Mine did fine during the recent dry years, but it’s grown bigger this year with plenty of rain.
I found this beauty in a local nursery without any blooms. The name was intriguing because it didn’t look the least bit like a rose. After seeing it in bloom, though, I’m glad I took a chance on it. This hot pink honey really adds some spice to the garden!!
Click on the pictures for a better view!!
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