Gigantic Blooms from Summer 'til Frost
Cold-hardy to -30 degrees F.
Plant Patent 14,776. We are delighted to offer 'Robert Fleming' this season, a very cold-hardy, long-blooming, large-flowered, adaptable Hibiscus from the famous brothers whose nursery, Fleming's Flower Fields, has brought such impressive plants into American gardens over the years. This Rose Mallow offers enormous 10-inch blooms, probably the darkest red in the Hibiscus family, so intense that they open nearly black! Borne on a shrubby, well-branched habit perfect as a hedge as well as a border standout, 'Robert Fleming' is an unforgettable sight in any sunny setting. The flowers blaze pure red in the afternoon sun, lightening from their midnight-scarlet opening. The petals are slightly ruffled and nicely overlapping, creating a solid 1-inch flower that can be seen from way down the street. They begin in midsummer and don't quit until hard frost, tossing up the last brave buds in late fall in many climates. Wherever 'Robert Fleming' is planted, it will be the focal point, so you can design around it effortlessly! The foliage is large, toothed, and bright blue-green, its shape and size reminiscent of Hydrangea. Three feet tall and 3 to 4 feet wide, this is a shrubby plant, and the leaves keep it attractive even out of season. Untroubled by serious pests or diseases, it is low maintenance to the point of being carefree, asking only for consistent sunshine and plenty of moisture. 'Robert Fleming' is unrivaled for cold hardiness. Surviving temperatures of -30 degrees F without damage, it pushes the range for Hibiscus all the way through zone 4 in the north -- excellent news for gardeners wishing to enjoy this large-flowered, long-blooming wonder in the garden rather than container! A good choice as a specimen, hedge, or border planting, it is great in large groups and combines well with pure white 'Blue River II.' Zones 4-9.
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