HIBISCUS SUMMERIFIC - COOKIES AND CREAM

Hibiscus Summerific® 'Cookies & Cream' is an exceptional perennial hibiscus, combining deep matte black foliage with immaculate white flowers to create a spectacular and irresistible contrast. A true focal point in the garden, it combines elegance, robustness, and abundant blooms, ideal for enhancing a flower bed or the back of a border.

• Type: Hardy herbaceous perennial (Hardy Hibiscus)
• Botanical name: Hibiscus x Summerific® 'Cookies & Cream'
• Common name: Perennial Hibiscus / Rose mallow
• Bloom time: Mid-summer to late summer, potentially extending into autumn depending on the climate
• Flowers: Pure white, large (≈ 15–20 cm / 6–7 inches), slightly cupped, without a central red eye; sometimes a slight pink tinge on the reverse of the petals
• Foliage: Deep matte black, very decorative and contrasting
• Height: Approximately 75–90 cm (≈ 2.5–3 feet) at maturity
• Spread: Approximately 100–120 cm (≈ 3.5–4 feet)
• Hardiness / zones: Zones 4 to 9 (withstands cold winters in these zones)
• Exposure: Full sun preferred (> 6 hours of direct sun); tolerates partial shade but the intensity of the dark foliage will be less
• Soil: Rich, moist but well-drained; tolerates clay soils but prefers to remain cool, especially in summer
• Winter care: Cut stems back to the ground in spring before new growth begins; mulch the base to protect roots in very cold areas
• Ongoing care: Regular watering, especially in dry periods; moist soil encourages more abundant blooming; remove spent flowers to stimulate continuous blooming; moderate fertilization at the beginning of the season
• Recommended uses: Star plant in a flower bed for a strong visual focal point, paired with light perennials or silver foliage; butterfly garden and biodiversity (attracts pollinators); perfect for the back of borders where its height can be fully appreciated

Why choose 'Cookies & Cream'?

This cultivar stands out for its striking chromatic duo: deep black foliage that enhances immaculate white flowers, creating a "color theater" effect in the garden. Its abundant flowering and impressive, yet not invasive, silhouette make it a reliable choice for both contemporary and classic gardens. Its hardiness is suitable for zones 4 to 9, and its ease of maintenance allows for abundant blooms with minimal care.

Design tips and pairings

• Plant it as a focal point in a colorful bed or along borders where it can fully express itself.
• Pair it with silver perennials or blue-tinged foliage to enhance the black and white contrast.
• To attract pollinators, integrate it into a "butterfly garden" with nectar-rich plants nearby.
• In late winter and early spring, prepare the ground and apply mulch around the base to protect roots during colder winters.