How to Grow Mahogany Splendor Hibiscus
If you’re looking to add deep color and texture to your garden or cut flower arrangements, Mahogany Splendor hibiscus (Hibiscus acetosella) might be the standout plant you didn’t know you needed. With deeply lobed, maple-like leaves in rich burgundy tones, this heat-loving tropical hibiscus adds dramatic flair to beds, containers, and floral displays—especially in late summer and fall.
Why I Love Growing Mahogany Splendor
I’ve grown Mahogany Splendor for several years, and it continues to impress me. This year, when my roselle hibiscus didn’t survive the frost, Mahogany Splendor did—and came back strong and beautiful in the spring. It thrives in the intense sun and heat of my low-desert Arizona garden, never missing a beat even during the hottest months. The flowers are a lovely bonus, but the real star is the deep burgundy foliage that holds up beautifully all summer long.
Whether you’re using it in arrangements or enjoying it in the landscape, this hibiscus is stunning.
When to Plant Mahogany Splendor
Mahogany Splendor is a tender perennial, grown as an annual in most areas. It thrives in full sun and warm soil.
In the low desert of Arizona:
Start seeds indoors from January through March, and transplant outdoors from March through May, once the soil has warmed and all danger of frost has passed.
In other zones:
Sow indoors 6–8 weeks before your last frost date. Transplant after frost danger has passed. This plant needs heat to thrive, so wait until nighttime temperatures are consistently above 50°F (10°C).
Growing Conditions and Care
- Height: 3 to 6 feet (90 to 180 cm)
- Spacing: 24 to 36 inches (60 to 90 cm). I plant 1 per 3 squares in my square foot garden.
- Sunlight: Full sun for richest color (partial sun results in green to rust-colored foliage).
- Days to maturity: 115 to 130 days
- Soil: Moist, well-draining soil with high organic matter; pH 5.8 to 6.5.
- Water: Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy. Allow the top 1 inch (2.5 cm) of soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Can it grow near ponds if it doesn’t tolerate wet soil?
Yes, but with caution. Mahogany Splendor does well near pond edges or in areas with brief, shallow moisture as long as the soil drains well. It does not tolerate standing water or consistently saturated conditions, which can lead to root rot.
Harvesting Tips for Cut Foliage & Companion Plants
This plant shines as a cut flower filler, especially in late summer and fall bouquets.
- Harvest when stems are mature, straight, and slightly woody.
- Cut at the base of the stem to encourage regrowth.
- Combines beautifully with zinnias and gomphrena for heat-tolerant, long-lasting arrangements.
Read more here: How to Grow Zinnias
Read more here: How to Grow Gomphrena (Globe Amaranth)
Read more here: Quick and Easy Cut Flower Arrangements
Want more flower ideas that don’t mind the heat? Read more here: Top Heat-Loving Flowers for Your Summer Garden
Extra Tips for Success
- Pinching: Optional, but encourages bushier growth and longer stems.
- Staking: May be needed in windy areas or as plants mature.
- Pests and diseases: Generally pest-free. Avoid soggy soil to prevent root rot.
Similar Plants and Growing Conditions
Mahogany Splendor is in the same plant family as okra and roselle hibiscus and shares similar growing preferences. If you’ve grown either of those, this hibiscus will feel familiar.
Read more here: How to Grow Okra in Arizona
Read more here: How to Grow Roselle Hibiscus
Need Help Planning Your Flower Garden?
This plant is included in my comprehensive flower planting guide. If you’re gardening in a hot climate and want to grow flowers that thrive, this guide is for you.
Read more here: Arizona Flower Planting Guide
Let me know if you add Mahogany Splendor to your garden—I’d love to hear how it does for you.
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