Hibiscus martianus

Heart-leaf Hibiscus is a native of Texas, where it can be found growing in canyons, along slopes, and hillsides in chaparrals, matorrals and thorn forests.   It is a heat-tolerant shrub that blooms crimson red in the summer through fall in full sun.  When grown in other locations that do not experience frost, it can be ever blooming.  

Not a showy plant until it blooms, when it becomes one of natures most spectacular bloomers.  

Two to three inch solitary flowers appear at the tips of the branches.  Pruning of the tips of the stems will provide a continued compact habit while also promoting more blooms.  During the hottest part of the season, when other plants may not look their best, these flowers will give color to your garden.  

The flowers and fruits of this hibiscus serves as a main source of food for the caterpillar of the Yohoa Scrub-hairstreak butterfly which lays it eggs on the flowers.  The Mallow Scrub-hairstreak and Gray Hairstreak caterpillars also feed on this plant.

Although adaptable to a variety of soils, good drainage is needed.  If not provided, the plant can rot,  

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Although adaptable to most soil conditions, when good drainage in not provided in heavy clay soil the plant will rot.