One of the most outstanding perennial plants in Ada is now in full bloom at the home of Jim and Jean Neiswander.

The 5-year-old, 7-foot-tall pink elephant hibiscus is located at the Neiswander home on the corner of North Johnson and East Montford.

While taking the picture, an Ada mailman passed by saying that overtime he has covered all of Ada and, he, too, judges the hibiscus as the prettiest plant in town.

Hardy hibiscus are easy to raise here, coming in short, medium, and tall heights, as well as in a multitude of colors, some bright, some soft pastels.

The Neiswanders say some of their success is in its location near a fence that supports this tall variety as well as it being in full sun. Jean religiously deadheads the blooms daily.

Since hibiscus prefer acid soil, the Neiswanders add some muric acid when the plant begins to flower. In the fall they cut the plant back to the ground then pile some leaves on top for insulation.

Hibiscus is a showy, tropical plant that brightens the "dog days of August" in Ada.
(Monty Siekerman)