Hibiscus Moscheutos Cherry Cheesecake
Contents
Description
Hibiscus Moscheutos Cherry Cheesecake is a type of hibiscus plant that produces showy, cherry-red flowers with a white center. This perennial plant is native to the wetlands of eastern North America and can grow up to 4-6 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide. The Cherry Cheesecake cultivar is unique for its large, double blooms that resemble fluffy, pinkish-red pom-poms. These flowers are attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making them a great addition to any pollinator garden.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Hibiscus |
Appearance
The Hibiscus Moscheutos Cherry Cheesecake plant has large, dark green leaves that are heart-shaped and slightly serrated. The flowers can grow up to 8 inches in diameter and have a deep cherry-red color with a white center. The Cherry Cheesecake cultivar is unique for its double blooms, which are composed of many layers of petals that give them a fluffy, pom-pom-like appearance. The plant blooms from midsummer to early fall and requires regular deadheading to encourage more blooms.
Care Guide
Water
Hibiscus Moscheutos Cherry Cheesecake prefers moist, well-drained soil, so it is important to water it regularly during the growing season. However, be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring, and then again in midsummer. Avoid over-fertilization, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms.
Soil
The plant prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5. It also prefers rich, loamy soil with good drainage.
Sunlight
Hibiscus Moscheutos Cherry Cheesecake prefers full sun to partial shade. In areas with hot, dry summers, it may benefit from some afternoon shade to prevent stress.
Hardiness Zones
The plant is hardy in USDA Zones 5-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hibiscus Moscheutos Cherry Cheesecake is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. These can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Hibiscus Moscheutos Cherry Cheesecake is native to the wetlands of eastern North America, where it grows in marshes and along riverbanks. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate some flooding.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I deadhead my Hibiscus Moscheutos Cherry Cheesecake plant?
A: You should deadhead the plant regularly throughout the blooming season to encourage more blooms. Remove spent flowers by cutting them off just above a set of leaves.
Q: Can I grow Hibiscus Moscheutos Cherry Cheesecake in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow the plant in a container as long as it is large enough to accommodate its size and needs. Use a well-draining potting mix and water regularly.
Q: How do I propagate Hibiscus Moscheutos Cherry Cheesecake?
A: You can propagate the plant by taking stem cuttings in the spring or early summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and provide bright, indirect light until the cuttings have rooted.
Q: How do I overwinter my Hibiscus Moscheutos Cherry Cheesecake plant?
A: The plant is hardy in Zones 5-10, but may need some protection in colder climates. Mulch around the base of the plant in the fall to protect the roots. In colder climates, you may need to cover the plant with a layer of burlap or bring it indoors for the winter.
Related Plants
- Hibiscus Moscheutos Luna Pink Swirl
- Hibiscus Moscheutos Pinot Noir
- Hibiscus Moscheutos Luna Red
- Hibiscus Moscheutos Lord Baltimore
References
- “Hibiscus Moscheutos ‘Cherry Cheesecake’.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=283628.
- “Hibiscus moscheutos.” NC State Extension, 16 Feb. 2018, content.ces.ncsu.edu/hibiscus-moscheutos.
- “Hibiscus Moscheutos, Swamp Hibiscus, Rose Mallow.” North Carolina State University, Department of Horticultural Science, plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/hibiscus-moscheutos/.
