Chicago Apache has done beautifully here in zone 8b. I ordered two plants from Oakes in the fall of 2021, and it has been nothing but great. It bloomed from June 11 through August in its first year. Both plants have increased. Best of all, the plant is highly rust-resistant as advertised. Blooms are a vibrant, brilliant red.
It is November, and the foliage is dying back, but I have no doubt Chicago Apache will come back next spring as vigorous as ever, and that I will enjoy it for many years to come.
