Great Red Hibiscus Seeds (Hibiscus coccineus)

Great Red Hibiscus, a perennial native to the coastal swamps of Georgia and Florida, was adopted as an ornamental in American gardens by the end of the 18th century, when George Washington ordered a plant for Mount Vernon.  The species bears palmately-lobed leaves and bright scarlet blossoms that are attractive to hummingbirds and butterflies.

Start seeds indoors 8-12 weeks before last frost date at 70 degrees F.  Scarify seeds before sowing.  Transplant seedlings to 1 gallon pots, then harden off and plant outdoors after last frost to rich soil with moderate to abundant moisture.  From seed, plants will flower in their second season from mid-summer until cold weather.  Approximately 8 seeds per packet.