It is very definitely hardy in central North Carolina. We are having about 10 days of temps in the low 80s and high 70s, and I would take advantage of the current conditions now.

Higher temps can be a problem, but a batch of high 80 degree days will not interfere with establishment. Fertilize well, checking the root system for how much you will need. A lot of light colored roots indicates a hungry plant. Few roots or mostly dark roots can be burned by too much fertilizer.

Awesome, thanks! I planted it.