Though not the same variety I have some hibiscus syriacus that I started from seed several years ago. They have been hardy for me with very little care other than adding some mulch around the base.

I've rather neglected them as they get eaten by deer each spring which has kept them short and haven't had any bloom. Dug them up and planted in pots this spring as redid that bed. Unsure what I'll do with these come fall.

Thanks for the reply, mnwsgal. A friend grows them in pots as well, and they bloom every summer. I'm tempted with this new double-flowered type, though they may be even less hardy. Never know till you try, eh?

Try it. I have had fabulous results with a Japanese maple yet the "professionals" still tell people they are not hardy in the Twin Cities.