The Rose of Sharon, also known as Hibiscus syriacus, is a popular flowering shrub known for its beautiful and prolific blooms. This deciduous shrub can grow to heights of 8 to 12 feet with a spread of 6 to 10 feet, forming an upright, vase-like shape. Its dark green leaves provide a lush backdrop to its large, showy flowers that come in various colors, including white, pink, purple, and blue.
 
Climate and Soil Requirements: The Rose of Sharon thrives in USDA hardiness zones 5 through 9. It prefers full sun to partial shade and grows best in well-drained, loamy soils, though it is adaptable to various soil types. It is relatively drought-tolerant once established but benefits from regular watering during dry periods to encourage abundant blooming.
 
Flower Characteristics: The flowers of the Rose of Sharon are large and trumpet-shaped, with a delicate texture and often featuring a contrasting eye in the center. The blooms appear in late summer and continue into early autumn, providing a burst of color when many other plants have finished flowering. Each flower lasts only a day, but the shrub produces a continuous succession of blooms, ensuring a long season of color.
 
Ideal For: The Rose of Sharon is an excellent choice for gardeners looking to add a colorful and hardy shrub to their landscape. It is particularly suited for planting in mixed borders, as a specimen plant, or as a flowering hedge. Its tall, upright habit also makes it a great choice for screening or adding vertical interest to gardens. The shrub's ability to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies further enhances its appeal in wildlife gardens.