AgriLife Research fundraiser aims to help set Vernon as Texas ‘Hibiscus Capital’
About 600 hardy hibiscus plants, which were part of plant breeding trials at the Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center at Vernon, went home with community members across Wilbarger County.
The third-annual hibiscus giveaway was part of a joint event held by the center at Vernon and the City of Vernon — taking place during the National Garden Bureau’s Year of the Hardy Hibiscus.
“The plants we give to the city for this event make a lovely addition to any residential garden or in front of businesses and public buildings since they are no longer needed in the breeding process,” said Dariusz Malinowski, Ph.D., Texas A&M AgriLife Research forage and ornamental breeding professor in the Texas A&M University Department of Soil and Crop Sciences, Vernon.
The plants grow 2-3 feet tall and wide and can withstand both hot summers and harsh winters, which makes them fit for gardens in many areas of the country.
“It’s wonderful that these hibiscuses can be enjoyed by those living here or visiting the area,” Malinowski said.