Hibiscus laevis Also referred to as Halberdleaf Rosemallow, Halberdleaf Hibiscus, Scarlet Rose Mallow, Halberd-leaved Hibiscus, and Halberd-leaved Rose-mallow. Hibiscus laevis, often called smooth rose mallow or halberd-leaved rose mallow, is a native herbaceous perennial of Texas that thrives in the lovely wet soils along streams, rivers, ponds, ditches, and even swampy areas across much of the state. You can easily recognize it by its unique three-lobed leaves, which can grow up to 6 inches long and look like the halberd spear from the 15th-16th centuries. From mid-summer into fall, this plant showcases large flowers with five petals that can measure up to 6 inches in diameter. These blooms display a gentle array of white to pink petals, with striking maroon eyes, all sitting atop sturdy stems that rise between 4-6 feet tall. Each flower proudly features a prominent and eye-catching central staminal column. For the best results, consider growing this plant in organically rich, medium to wet soils while basking in full sunlight. Although it can handle a bit of light shade, the best blooms occur in full sun, providing an ideal environment to maintain health and resist potential diseases. BONAP MAP Height: 4’-6’Spread: 2’-3’Bloom: August-SeptemberLight: Full Sun-Part ShadeWater: Medium-HighZone: 4-9Origin: Eastern & Central United States