Author
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Pounders Jr, Cecil |
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Submitted to: Germplasm Release
Publication Type: Other Publication Acceptance Date: 2/14/2011 Publication Date: 2/14/2011 Citation: Pounders Jr, C.T. 2011. Notice to nurserymen of the naming and release for propagation of lufkin red, an american hardy hibiscus. Germplasm Release. p1-2. Interpretive Summary: n/a Technical Abstract: Hibiscus laevis ‘Lufkin Red’, a new hardy native ornamental hibiscus is recommended for trial by nurserymen and horticulturists as a summer flowering perennial landscape plant nationwide but is particularly adapted to conditions in the South. ‘Lufkin Red’ was selected for its outstanding red flowers and outstanding disease resistant foliage. The form and scale of the plant are ideally proportioned for inclusion as a component of perennial borders and gardens. This selection retains the leaf texture and field resistance of the maternal parent to the complex of foliar diseases prevalent on most commercial rose mallow selections grown under humid conditions in states bordering the Gulf of Mexico. Flower quality and numbers as well as growth habit are much improved over the native species. Plants of ‘Lufkin Red’ are semi-compact, upright spreading with abundant production of red flowers of moderate size (10-15cm) with a small white , then red swath of color at the base of each petal which is not visible from a distance. Flowers often are cupped on cool mornings but open flat by noon. This cultivar is very fertile and abundant seed pods are produced from insect pollination. Flowering is stimulated by removal of the seed pods. Leaves are slightly smaller than typical Hibiscus laevis but retain the war club three-lobed shape. Under landscape conditions plants should mature to approximately 1.6 meters high x 1.3 meters wide. Plants die to ground level each winter and build a large multi-stemmed clump after several seasons of regrowth. |
