oneida cnty....I don't have hibicus but my sister has. All I remember her saying was that the darn thing wouldn't grow the first 2 years so she just chopped it down to the ground figuring it would die. But that made it grow like a weed and then it got 5' high but didn't bloom. 3 yrs later it is blooming with hundreds of blooms. So maybe it just needs time.

Hi Val,
I bought one at the plant sale too! I've read that they are late bloomers and may not bloom here. I think it is a very attractive plant even without blooms. Though I was hoping to see some blooms so I could save seeds to grow it again. They are not winter hardy here. I wish I could tell you how well they would do overwintered in a sun room, but I haven't a clue.
Remy

I have one growing in front of my shed it is about 7 feet tall! I had hedged it a bit a few months ago and it kind of bushy. They normally bloom for the fall the flowers are not so striking because it is the same color as the foligage. I love the deep rich burgundy leaves it gives the garden a good contrast. I had purchase seeds online from P Seeds this is how I aquired the plant. I have lots of small plants that I am potting up for friends as this plant reseeds in abundance. I have my red sheild planted in the ground for over 18 months
Rochelle