Hibiscus syriacus

 

  Rose of Sharon

  Family: Malvaceae

  Origin: India, China

Hardiness: USDA Zones 8, 9 and 10
Growth: Medium rate of growth to 12 feet
Form: Upright, spreading at top
Leaves: Deciduous; 3 inch leaves with 3 toothed lobes
Flowers: 3 inch, single or double; white, pink, most with blue tints
Exposure: Full sun or part shade
Water: Moderate water preferred though somewhat drought tolerant
Soil: Well drained
Fertilizer: NPK in spring or fall
Prune: Head back and thin in winter to shape
Problems: Aphids, scale; many fallen flowers to rake

There are many named varieties of this plant. Flowers vary in size and color, although most have a bluish cast. Single and double flowers are available. Select this plant while it's in bloom in the summer.

© 1997 by Jim Clatfelter.         Go to Garden California Home Page

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