Hibiscus Ballet Slippers

Hibiscus Ballet Slippers

Hibiscus Ballet Slippers is a vigorous, herbaceous perennial known for its captivating, dinner-plate-sized blooms that appear from mid to late summer into early fall. Each flower can reach 7–8 inches across, with delicate blush-pink petals that deepen slightly toward the ruffled edges, surrounding a vibrant red eye and prominent white staminal column. The flowers last just one day, but bloom in succession over several weeks, creating a showstopping display when in full bloom.

This variety grows in a dense, rounded clump with rich green, maple-like foliage, forming a handsome backdrop to the blooms. It typically reaches 3 to 4.5 feet tall and wide, making it well-suited for middle to back borders, sunny foundation plantings, or as a bold specimen. Developed by Proven Winners, ‘Ballet Slippers’ is part of the Summerific® series, known for excellent flower coverage and compact, tidy growth habits.

Unlike tropical hibiscus, Ballet Slippers is cold-hardy and reliably returns each year in USDA Zones 4–9. It thrives in full sun and moist, well-drained soil, and benefits from consistent watering during hot weather. Bees and butterflies are frequent visitors, while deer tend to leave it alone. This plant dies back to the ground in winter but rebounds quickly in spring with strong new growth.

Planting: Choose a sunny, well-drained spot with rich soil. Amend with compost if necessary.

Watering: Keep consistently moist, especially during blooming season.

Fertilizing: Feed in spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer for robust blooms.

Pruning: In late fall or early spring, cut back stems to the ground.

Mulching: Apply mulch in spring to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Spacing: Allow enough space for mature width and airflow to prevent mildew.