Hardy Hibiscus 'Pink Elephant' – Hibiscus moscheutos

Overview

'Pink Elephant' is a remarkable hardy hibiscus cultivar (Hibiscus moscheutos) introduced in 2008 (PP21883) by hybridizer Miksich. It is renowned for its massive, ruffled pink flowers that can reach up to 12 inches in diameter—among the largest of any hardy hibiscus.

Botanical Profile

Flower & Plant Details

Flowers are a soft, clear pink with heavily ruffled, overlapping petals and a small red eye. The plant forms a robust, upright clump 5–6 feet tall and wide, with large, maple-like green leaves. Blooms from midsummer to frost, each flower lasting a day but produced in abundance.

Cultivation

• Zones: 4–9.
• Sun: Full sun (6+ hours).
• Soil: Moist, rich, well-drained; thrives in wet soils.
• Water: Consistent moisture essential for largest blooms.
• Maintenance: Cut back to ground in late winter. Mulch in zone 4.

Landscape Use

Spectacular as a focal point, in rain gardens, or at the back of perennial borders. The enormous flowers are a magnet for hummingbirds and pollinators.