Blackberry Merlot Hibiscus

Hibiscus ‘Blackberry Merlot’ PP33498 is a hardy hybrid rose mallow with a compact, upright, mounded shape. Its large, deep velvety-red flowers have a darker reddish eye and begin in late July, continuing for at least eight weeks. ## Flowers and form The overlapping, gently rippled petals create a full flower with added strength against wind. Leaves are deep green, with mahogany tones when young. [Walters Gardens](https://www.waltersgardens.com/variety.php?ID=HIBBM) lists mature height at 4–4.5 feet and spread at 3.5–4 feet, with hardiness in USDA Zones 4–9. The plant’s namesake selection is documented as a hybrid in [U.S. Plant Patent PP33,498](https://patents.justia.com/patent/PP33498). ## Garden placement Give this plant a sunny or partly shaded site and space for its broad, branching clump. It performs best with plenty of moisture; the breeder lists average to consistent water needs and includes it among rain-garden and bog-garden plants. The late-summer flowers make it an effective focal point in a mixed perennial border, and the breeder notes that bees and butterflies visit it. ## Maintenance New growth may emerge later in spring than many perennials, so leave the planting site undisturbed until shoots appear. Keep moisture steady during active growth, especially through hot weather, and allow the clump to reach its mature size before deciding whether it needs division.