This is a native hibiscus for Florida. It is known as scarlet hisbiscus, rosemallow, marsh hibiscus or swamp mallow. It can grow to 4-8'. This spectacular native shrub, with large scarlet flowers, is a butterfly-attractor. While its native habitat includes wet sites. strands, sloughs, swamps, brackish and freshwater marshes; commonly in water. It is a tall herbaceous perennial which dies back to the ground going dormant in late fall after its leaves turn a pretty fall pale yellow and fall off. They do well at the edge of the CFC (Center for Conservation) ponds in Apollo Beach and blooming. Each year they come back bigger, stronger and with more stalks. When planted initially Florida was in drought season and the plants were planted 2 feet from the waters edge. As of rainy season the plants were 1' under water and still thriving!
My tortoise absolutely loves the red flowers!