Flower-of-an-hour (Hibiscus trionum) hy-BIS-kus try-OH-num Genus:  Hibiscus A seldom-seen annual or short-lived perennial, this easy-to-grow plant performs as the perfect filler in beds and containers. It forms a well-branched compact mound of deeply lobed, dark green leaves, which provide an interesting textural backdrop to its charming, hibiscus-type flowers. The flowers are truly stunning with their cream petals, purple-hued undersides, and deep burgundy centers. While each flower lasts only a single day, the plant blooms profusely all season and produces inflated seedpods. The flowers will not normally open on a cloudy day, but this is a small price to pay for such a gem of a plant. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Flowers last only one day each. Interesting seedpods. Fast grower. Care:  Put plants in a sunny spot with moist, well-drained, fertile soil. Propagation:  Sow seeds indoors 4 to 6 weeks before the last frost or outdoors after danger of frost has passed. Problems:  Rust, fungal leaf spots, bacterial blight, Verticillium wilt, viruses, stem rots, root rots. Whiteflies, aphids, mealybugs, scale insects, mites, Japanese beetles, and caterpillars can also cause problems.

Overview

Height 1 ft. to 3 ft. Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft. Growth Habit Spreads Growth Pace Fast Grower Light Full Sun Only Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Moderate Characteristics Showy Flowers, Showy Seed Heads Bloom Time Early Fall, Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Summer Flower Color Pink, Red, White Uses Beds and Borders, Container, Indoor Plant Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Type Annuals