Confederate roses are actually large hibiscus relatives that bloom in fall.

The normal form in my part of the state is the pink one pictured here. Notice the bumble bee dozing inside the flower.

I also have one that opens white and turns pink as the flower matures. This is quite appropriate since the Latin name for confederate rose is Hibiscus mutabilis which probably means mutating hibiscus.

These old fashioned flowes are definitely passalongs. In early winter, the cane-like stalks are cut to the ground. Most folks save a few, often in the garage in a bucket of water. Roots form in this frost-free area by spring and new starts can be shared with friends.

When this imposing perennial is in bloom, it can reach a height of 10 feet or more and be covered with dozens of flowers. It’s a traffic stopper!