The fact that you bought these plants at WalMart, tells me that you likely got Rose of Sharon's which are plenty hardy for your area. WalMart would never bring in a plant with such a narrow growing zone. I've seen numerous times on plant stakes or labels "Rose of Sharon - rosa sinensis" at big box stores, smaller hardware/nursery centers and other small garden centers. You would think that labeling would be correct but I would never depend on them being correct. I still take my Sunset Garden Book to the garden center to verify a plant will survive in my zone and/or any specific needs. I'm sure I have the same plant as your 4. My plant loses its leaves over winter. I cut back all the thin branches back to the main stems in Spring. My plant is just beginning to develop leaves. Our weather has been in the 50 - 60's by day and nights are high 30's - 40's. We have had a few days in the 70's but not constant. I'd trim back the spindly branches now but until your soil gets to be around 60 degrees, you won't see much growth. A good garden book for your area would be very helpful to you even if you are not a big time gardener. It's very convenient to be able to run inside to get your book when you come across a weed, a pest, or your plant looks sickly. I bet you'll have gorgeous flowers within a couple of months.

I planted a big 4 foot single red flowered one in the ground this year and also a double peach(it is sooo beautiful, I luv it) braided one in the ground. They are both soooo happy to be free! The big one is getting even bigger. Whoops, I hope I can dig that one up. Oh well, I'm sure if I prune it it will be alright. LOL (my family is going to think I am crazy) They look great in the ground! THey are addictive. Still want a double yellow.

The short answer is "No". That said, the Fleming Brothers have developed at least three cultivars that they have patented, or are patenting, that they assert to be hybrids of hardy hibiscus and exotic tropical hibiscus, of the rosa-sinensis complex. However, I have a "backyard hybridizer" friend who seriously questions their claims. That said, I DO have one of these plants, Pink Comet which at least hints at having rosa-sinensis genetic material in its heritage. I have also read that hybrids of rosa-sinensis, and Hibiscus syriacus( The Rose of Sharon)have been created. I have not found them on the market yet, however. DO give it a try! You just MIGHT get fortunate! Subtropical hibiscus, such as Hibiscus grandiflorus of Florida, will cross with certain hardy hibiscus, such as Hibiscus moscheutos. These can be truly spectacular. One such hybrid is Hibiscus 'Moy Grande'. This was developed by a Dr. Moy, of San Antonio if memory serves me right. It is worth obtaining. I can send you seed, if you tell me your name and address. You can contact me at :jrandjimr@comcast.net Sincerely, "Palmfan" (Jim Reilly)

Yes! I just brought it inside last week. That's good to hear! Last hibiscus I had squirrels attacked so I didn't want to buy another one until we moved. We had such a terrible squirrel problem. All the branches were whittled down to nubs.