Texas Star Hibiscus

The mallow family (Malvaceae) has many striking plants including hibiscus and Althea. 

Althea officinalis is known by the common name marsh mallow and the derivation for the name given to the confectionery treat, marshmallows. 

HIBISCUs

Texas Star Hibiscus

Texas Star Hibiscus coccineus or scarlet rose mallow

Many times this is included as  a Texas native but upon verification it has been found to be excluded.

The Swamp Hibiscus or Scarlet Rose Mallow is called Texas Star in Texas, and it has a beautiful red bloom in the summer. This is Hibiscus coccineus by scientific name. It has a large single flower with five points, and may have several blooming at one time. It is the size of a hibiscus, although the flower is more pointed than we usually recognize as a member of the hibiscus family.

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©  2020 Hyden Photography for

Native Plants of Texas 

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