Marsh Hibiscus grows to be around 3 to 7 feet tall. It is a leafy perennial. Hibiscus is found in fresh water marshes, swamps, or wooded wetlands. The large flowers are white or pink with a red center and yellow stamens. The flowers bloom from July to September and attract many insect pollinators. During the winter hibiscus is distinguished by gray-brown seed capsules found on the stalks, and new flowers form alongside these fruits. The leaves on hibiscus are large and serrated, growing to be several inches long.

Hibiscus leaves can be used to make a soothing poultice or a gargle, and tea made from the entire plant has been used to treat a variety of respiratory and digestive ailments.