Hibiscus martianus aka Heartleaf Rosemallow

Hibiscus martianus is a small shrub in the mallow family. This family bears the name Malvaceae. People call it heart-leaf hibiscus or heartleaf rosemallow. Its native range runs from Texas into Mexico. In Texas, it grows in canyons and on hillsides. It grows in chaparral, thorn forest, and matorral scrub. Hibiscus cardiophyllus is another name for the same species.

This shrub grows slowly and forms a round mound. It is deciduous, which means it sheds its leaves. It reaches 1–3 feet [0.3–0.91 metres] tall and wide. Its leafy stems bear simple leaves, each with one blade. The leaves grow in turn along stems and have toothed edges. The source describes heart-shaped leaves with a silvery green hue. It also lists narrow, lanceolate leaves, shaped like lance tips. Smooth bark has green and brown tones and small, long marks. Older twigs turn gray, and the stems have no scent.

Single red flowers open at the ends of branches. Each bloom has the shape of a saucer. It measures about 0.17–0.25 feet [0.05–0.08 metres] across. Flowers have four or five petals and grow on new stems. The main account gives summer into fall as bloom time. The source lists spring as a bloom season, too. Where frost does not occur, blooms can last all year. Oval seed cases, called capsules, follow the flowers and add interest. Birds eat the fruits.

Grow this shrub in full sun or part shade. It copes with heat, drought, and spells of dry soil. It also grows in moist soil that drains well. It can grow in sand, loam, clay, or shallow rocky ground. The source says it prefers soil with a neutral pH. Poor drainage can cause root rot. NC State lists USDA hardiness zones 8a and 8b. It also says frost can harm the plant. Trim stem tips to keep it compact and encourage blooms. Grow new plants from seeds or stem cuttings.

Its small size suits pots, borders, patios, and slopes. Use it as an accent or a low hedge. Groups can add summer color to dry gardens. The blooms draw hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. Yojoa Scrub-hairstreak butterflies lay eggs on the flowers. Mallow Scrub-hairstreak butterflies feed on the plant, too. These links suit gardens for wildlife and pollinators. NC State lists narcissus bulb fly as a possible pest. The supplied sources give no human food uses. They give no findings on whether the plant is toxic.