Sacramento Delta Hibiscus
Hibiscus lasiocarpos
Care
full sun
moderate
Soil should be kept moist throughout the growing season.
Jun-Nov
Friendly
Prized
Wetlands and riparian areas of the Sacramento and San Joaquin Delta region and adjacent valleys, below 100 ft elevation
Care Guide
Planting
Plant your Sacramento Delta Hibiscus in full sun and in soil that stays moist throughout the growing season - this is a wetland native, so good drainage matters less than consistent moisture. Plant in spring or early summer to give it time to establish before winter. Space plants to accommodate their sprawling growth habit, as they can reach 3–6 feet wide.
After Planting
Water regularly your first year to keep soil consistently moist, especially during the growing season (spring through fall). Your hibiscus will bloom from June through November; once established, it should need less frequent watering, though the soil should never completely dry out. The #1 mistake is letting the soil dry out - this plant evolved in freshwater wetlands and won't tolerate drought, so err on the side of too much water rather than too little.
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Wildlife Supported
Insects
Forages for pollen during peak bloom activity
Gathers pollen and nectar for larval food stores
Specialist pollen collector for nest provisioning
Early season forager, collects pollen for larval provisions
Primary pollinator; forages during bloom season
Adults feed on foliage; larvae parasitic on bee nests
Uses plant as habitat for larval development
Cleptoparasitic associate of native bees using this plant
+4 more species