Hibiscus 'Midnight Marvel' is a bold statuesque perennial with dramatic deep burgundy foliage and enormous scarlet red flowers that span up to 8 in across. A hybrid of hardy native hibiscus species, it combines ornamental foliage with season long flowering. The luminous blooms stand out against its dark leaves and continue into early fall drawing attention from both pollinators and passersby.
Height & Spread: 48 - 54 in x 36 - 48 in
Bloom Time: Midsummer to early fall
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Moist, rich soil with consistent moisture
Watering Needs: High; do not allow to dry out during peak growth
Deer Resistance: Moderately resistant; deer may sample but typically avoid mature foliage
Native Status
This cultivar was bred from North American native species including Hibiscus moscheutos, giving it strong cold hardiness and suitability for native inspired plantings despite its hybrid status.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- The large red blooms attract swallowtails and fritillaries seeking nectar in midsummer.
Bees
- Popular with bumblebees and long tongued native bees including Melissodes and Bombus species which crawl deep into the open flowers.
Hummingbirds
- The bright red blossoms and tubular floral structure appeal to Ruby Throated Hummingbirds during their peak migration.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Plant 36 - 48 in apart to accommodate the broad canopy and encourage air circulation.
Landscape Placement:
- Ideal for back borders, wet meadows, or rain gardens where bold foliage and flower contrast is desired. Works well as a specimen in cottage gardens or large container groupings.
Companion Plants
- Miscanthus sinensis 'Gracillimus' - Tall ornamental grass adds movement and fine texture to balance hibiscus structure.
- Monarda didyma 'Jacob Cline' - Brilliant red blooms echo hibiscus flowers and attract complementary pollinators.
- Persicaria amplexicaulis 'Firetail' - Spires of red flowers extend seasonal color into late summer and fall.
- Eupatorium dubium 'Little Joe' - Mauve purple domes attract butterflies and add late season height without overshadowing hibiscus.
- Coreopsis verticillata 'Moonbeam' - Soft yellow flowers provide contrast to the red blooms and burgundy foliage.