A Fast-Growing Perennial Flower Will Give You Fragrant Blooms Well Into Fall

If you want a perennial that grows fast and keeps your garden glowing, sunset muskmallow (Abelmoschus manihot) is a standout. This hibiscus relative produces big, buttery yellow blooms with deep burgundy centers from midsummer well into fall. Each flower lasts only a day, but they appear in succession, keeping your garden fragrant and full of life for weeks on end.

The plant itself forms a tropical-looking clump reaching 4 to 6 feet tall and 2 to 3 feet wide by season's end. With full sun and ample space to spread, it makes a bold addition to mixed borders or a dramatic container feature. In USDA Hardiness zones 8 through 10, it thrives outdoors year-round, while gardeners in cooler climates can treat it as an annual or bring containers inside for winter protection.

And the appeal isn't just visual. Those nectar-rich blooms attract bees and butterflies, making it a natural choice as you start a pollinator garden. The lush foliage adds tropical flair to cottage-style plantings, and the fact that deer usually leave it alone means less fuss for you. With its fast-growing habit, long-lasting summer show, and flowers that extend all the way to the first frost, sunset muskmallow earns its place in any garden.

Despite its tropical look, this beauty is one of the easier plants to grow for beginner gardeners. It performs well in fertile, well-draining loam that holds consistent moisture, with a relatively neutral pH of 6 to 8. Regular watering during hot spells keeps blooms coming, while cutting stems back in winter encourages vigorous new growth when warmer weather returns.

Propagation is simple. Seeds germinate in about two weeks, or you can take softwood cuttings in early summer for faster results. Plant it in full sun and give each clump plenty of room to reach its full size. While pests such as aphids, root nematodes, slugs, and whiteflies might occasionally appear, issues are generally minor. 

Beyond its ornamental beauty, sunset muskmallow has a rich history across Asia. Tropical foliage adds texture even when flowers aren't blooming, and its young, nutrient-rich leaves and flowers are edible. Extracts from the plant have traditional uses in medicine and cosmetics to boot. With its beauty, resilience, and versatility, sunset muskmallow offers more than just a season of flowers in one easy-care package. Plus, its blooms make stunning table decor, bringing the garden indoors for a show-stopping centerpiece.