perennial

California Rose-mallow

Hibiscus californicus

The Story

Plant Bio

A robust, herbaceous perennial native to California wetlands, featuring large, maple-like leaves and showy, 3-5 inch white to pale pink flowers with a crimson center.

Thrives in wet, boggy conditions and full sun, making it an excellent choice for pond margins, rain gardens, and wildlife habitats. Attracts native bees.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides vibrant summer blooms and attracts beneficial insects, enhancing garden biodiversity.

Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for water-wise landscapes.

Supports pollinators like bees and butterflies, contributing to local ecosystems.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

72 inches

Width

48 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9, 10

Water

High

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

California

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil.
Tuck seeds or cuttings into moist soil in spring after last frost.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
Water deeply once a week during dry periods.
Fertilize monthly with balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Prune lightly in late winter to shape.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
Prune to shape after flowering
Apply mulch to retain soil moisture

Don't

Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
Use heavy clay soil without amendment
Neglect pruning or fertilizing

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Prune
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid summer borderDrought-tolerant hedge

Companion Plants

Lavender Salvia CoreopsisYarrow Russian sage

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

California Rose-mallow questions

What zones can California Rose-mallow grow in?

California Rose-mallow is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is California Rose-mallow deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse California Rose-mallow, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does California Rose-mallow bloom?

California Rose-mallow typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does California Rose-mallow need full sun?

California Rose-mallow does best in full sun (6+ hours).