Rose of Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus and cvs.): Hardy Deciduous Shrub with Summer Blooms

Rose of Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus and cvs.)

Rose of Sharon is a hardy, deciduous, vase-shaped woody shrub that blooms for several weeks beginning in midsummer. Cultivars include 'Aphrodite' (deep rose-pink with dark red eye), 'Diana' (large white with wavy petals), 'Helene' (white with reddish purple bases), and 'Minerva' (lavender with pink tinge and dark red centers). Unpruned, it can grow 15 feet or more tall. Its open habit looks best at the back of a border, in groups, or as an informal hedge.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Unpruned, can grow 15+ feet tall. Open habit best for back of border, groups, or informal hedge.

Growing Conditions and Care

Full sun; moist but well-drained soil.

Propagation

Divide in spring. Root greenwood cuttings in late spring, or semi-ripe cuttings in summer.

Potential Problems

Rust, fungal leaf spots, bacterial blight, Verticillium wilt, viruses, stem and root rots. Whiteflies, aphids, mealybugs, scale insects, mites, Japanese beetles, caterpillars.

Quick Reference

• Height: 10–15 ft.
• Spread: 3–6 ft.
• Growth Habit: Clumps
• Growth Pace: Invasive/Aggressive
• Light: Full Sun Only
• Moisture: Medium
• Bloom Time: Summer
• Flower Color: Pink, Red, White
• Uses: Beds and Borders, Hedge, Specimen Plant/Focal Point
• Style: Cottage Garden
• Seasonal Interest: Summer Interest
• Type: Shrub