Expert: C.L. Fornari - 8/9/2008

Question
i just purchased what the tag says is a "pinot noir hibiscus" the only tag on it says the name and that it is an annual. it has about 12 buds on it, is in about a 10 in pot and the plant is about 12-15" tall. Do i leave it in a pot or plant and how tall will it get. i searched the internet and just got confused. it kind of looks like the ornamental okra???

Answer
Barbara,
The Hibiscus 'Pinot Noir' that I'm familiar with is a hardy perennial in zones 4 through 8. It has large red flowers and grows about three feet high. To see a picture and description go to: http://www.daytonnursery.com/Encyclopedia/Perennials/Hibiscus.htm

If you need to know what hardiness zone you're in go to this page and click on the map where you live: http://www.usna.usda.gov/Hardzone/ushzmap.html

Hardy hibiscus have large flowers that usually bloom in August or early September. The main thing to know about this plant is that it is VERY LATE to break dormancy in the spring - all your other perennials will be up and growing and this one won't have sprouted yet.  It waits until the soil gets really warm before it starts growing, so don't dig it up by mistake in April!  Plant it now and water it deeply (sprinkler not hand watering) every seven days in cooler summer temps and every four days in hot weather.  When the leaves die in hard frost you can cut the stems down leaving about 3" stubs so that you remember where it is.  This plant will get about 3' or more wide so give it room to grow!

I hope this helps,
C.L.