
(Hibiscus syriacus)

Rose of sharon, Shrub althea, Chinese hibiscus, Hibiscus syriacus
Hibiscus syriacus is a deciduous flowering shrub that can grow up to 10 feet (3 meters) tall and 6 feet (1.8 meters) wide. It produces showy, funnel-shaped flowers in shades of white, pink, lavender, and blue from mid-summer to fall. The leaves are green and lobed, and the bark is grayish-brown.
6-10 feet (1.8-3 meters) tall and 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters) wide
Hibiscus syriacus requires full sun to partial shade. It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to produce flowers.
The plant prefers moderate humidity levels. It can tolerate dry air but may benefit from occasional misting.
Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Use a fertilizer with a higher phosphorus content to promote flower production.
Prune the plant in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged wood and shape the plant. Hibiscus syriacus blooms on new wood, so pruning will encourage new growth and more flowers.
Common pests include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot can also affect the plant.
Not suitable for indoor growth
Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season. Reduce watering in the fall and winter. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Hibiscus syriacus can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from -10°F (-23°C) to 100°F (38°C). However, it prefers temperatures between 60°F (15°C) and 90°F (32°C).
The growing season for Hibiscus syriacus is from spring to fall. It goes dormant in the winter.
Hibiscus syriacus is moderately easy to grow. It requires regular watering, fertilizing, and pruning, but is generally tolerant of a wide range of growing conditions.
USDA hardiness zones 5-9
The flowers of Hibiscus syriacus are edible and can be used to make tea or added to salads for a pop of color.