Hibiscus militaris is more commonly known by its newer Latin name, Hibiscus laevis. The militaris refers to the similarity of the shape of its leaves with the lance end of medieval pole-ax or halberd. The flowers are pink to almost white with a maroon or purple eye and 5 overlapping petals. The flowers are produced all along the stem from the bottom to the top and measure up to 6 inches across. The plant stands 4 to 6 feet tall, blooming in mid summer until fall, although each flower lasts only one day. Hibiscus laevis is native to the United States and Canada and grows in Illinois in wet areas such as marshes and along the edges of streams.