Hibiscus dasycalyx

There is something appealing about rare plants that makes me want to grow them. One reason is probably the fact that they are, without a doubt, unique and uncommon and will likely never be available in big box stores like Walmarts and Home Depots.

Such is the case with the Neches River Hibiscus, Hibiscus dasycalyx. It is only found in 3 locations in east Texas and was designated as a threatened species in 2013. It is estimated that there are only around 2,000 individual plants in the wild.

This perennial is becoming one of my favorite Hibiscus species. I love its large butterfly- attracting white flowers with red centers. Even when not in bloom, the plant is still quite attractive due to its unique leaves. They are T-shaped, deeply lobed, and are the narrowest among all species in the Hibiscus genus. It blooms best in full sun but tolerates some shade. They grow between 3-4’ tall and wide in most garden soils, tolerate moist conditions but are fine with normal garden watering regimes. Listed hardy to zone 7, plants have reliably over-wintered in northern Oklahoma for several years.

According to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, this Hibiscus has not been found growing along the Neches River as its name would suggest. It is found in those few locations in soil near standing water that is wet in spring but dries up in summer. Neches River Hibiscus blooms from mid-June to September.