The hibiscus grew vigorously the first year, but did not yield any flowers. We cut the old growth to the ground in the Spring after new growth started. It's now late July, and the plant is about 4 feet tall and covered with dozens of buds and several huge, brightly colored flowers have opened. Very happy with the Summer in Paradise Rose Mallow, and would order another if we had the space. We are located in Northern New Jersey, and the plant had no problem with this past mild winter.