This hardy, deciduous, vase-shaped, woody shrub blooms for several weeks beginning in midsummer. Cultivars include ‘Aphrodite’ (deep rose-pink flowers with a dark red eye), ‘Diana’ (large white flowers with wavy-margined petals), ‘Helene’ (white flowers with bases flushed reddish purple), and ‘Minerva’ (low-branched with lavender flowers tinged with pink and dark red centers).
Noteworthy CharacteristicsUnpruned, Rose of Sharon can grow to 15 feet or more tall. Open habit looks best at the back of a border, in groups, or as an informal hedge.
CareProvide full sun and moist but well-drained soil.
PropagationDivide in spring. Root greenwood cuttings in late spring, or semi-ripe cutings in summer.
ProblemsRust, fungal leaf spots, bacterial blight, Verticillium wilt, viruses, and stem and root rots. Whiteflies, aphids, mealybugs, scale insects, mites, Japanese beetles, and caterpillars.
Fine Gardening Recommended Products
RAINPOINT Sprinkler Timer with Brass Swivel
Nelson Multi-Pattern Stationary Sprinkler
DeWalt Variable-Speed Cordless Reciprocating Saw with 6-Piece Saw Blade Set
- Genus : Hibiscus
- Plant Height : 10 to 15 feet
- Plant Width : 3 to 6 feet
- Zones : 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
- Growth Rate : Fast
- Light : Full Sun
- Moisture : Medium Moisture
- Flower Color : Pink, Red, White
- Plant Type : Shrubs
- Bloom Time : Summer
- Plant Seasonal Interest : Summer Interest
Plant Characteristics are only available to Fine Gardening members
Sign up for a free trial and get instant access to our complete plant guide as well as our entire collection of articles and videos.
