Rose of sharon - Hibiscus syriacus (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Rose of sharon

Also known as: Shrub althea, Korean rose

Hibiscus syriacus is a deciduous shrub with trumpet-shaped pink, lavender, or white flowers. Although it was first collected by Western botanists from Syrian gardens, “rose of sharon” is native to south-central and southeastern China. Because of its hardiness and prolific blooming, it is cultivated all around the world. It is the national flower of South Korea, mentioned in its national anthem.

Scientific classification

Species

Rose of sharon (Hibiscus syriacus)

Mallows, rock-roses, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub, Tree

Plant Type

Mid summer, Late summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Mid fall, Late fall, Early winter

Harvest Time

2 m to 4 m

Plant Height

5 cm to 8 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

5 cm to 10 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Copper

Fruit Color

White, Pink, Red, Blue, Purple, Violet

Flower Color

White, Pink, Green, Red, Blue

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Rose of sharon

Distribution of Rose of sharon

Distribution Map

Rose of sharon is native to China, where it is typically found growing on mountain slopes. This plant is a popular ornamental and has been cultivated throughout much of the world. However, rose of sharon is also listed as invasive in several US states.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Mountain slopes

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Environmental Protection Value

It can retain dust and has great resistance to harmful gases.

Garden Use

Rose of sharon is a deciduous shrub commonly found in gardens. It is prized for its late-season large showy flowers. Its bushy shape makes it suitable for hedging and screens. Rose of sharon is good for Mediterranean or drought-tolerant gardens. Suggested companion plants include Red Mountain Spinach or Floribunda Rose to make a color contrast.

Symbolism

Gentle perseverance, beauty, love, healing

Interesting Facts

The flowering of the hibiscus can last as long as 180 days. It blossoms in the morning and closes its bud in the evening, just like the rising and setting of the sun. Likewise, there will be ups and downs in loving someone.But those who know how to love will not easily give up. They will persevere because they understand that in life ups and downs are inevitable, and nothing will cause them to stray from their commitment or cease their belief in love. This is likely why this flower holds the meaning of “gentle perseverance”.

Name Story

Rose of sharon: The name Rose of Sharon is actually derived from the Bible. Scholars are unsure to which specific plant the name identifies. In daily life, there are also many other species known as the Rose of Sharon. However, if you mention the Rose of Sharon in North America, it is most likely referring to the Hibiscus syriacus.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Rose of sharon, including the following common varieties :

Rose of sharon 'Hamabo'Rose of sharon 'Aphrodite'Rose of sharon 'Oiseau Bleu'Rose of sharon 'Notwood3'Rose of sharon 'Woodbridge'Rose of sharon 'Marina'Rose of sharon 'Red Heart'Rose of sharon 'Diana'Rose of sharon 'William R. Smith'Rose of sharon 'Pink Giant'

Quickly Identify Rose of sharon

Erect growth reaching 8-12 feet (2.4-3.7 meters) with showy, tropical flowers and 3-lobed leaves.

Distinctive 5-valved, dehiscent fruit capsule persisting through winter, measuring 3/4 inch (1.9 cm).

Large flowers (2-4 inches/5-10 cm) with 5 crepe-like petals in vibrant colors and bell-like shape.

Medium to dark green, 3-lobed leaves (2-4 inches/5-10 cm) with shiny, toothed surfaces.

Foliage arrangement, glossy medium green leaves, and persistent fruit capsule aid in winter identification.

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Care Guide for Rose of sharon

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Rose of sharon, native to East Asia, prefers well-drained, consistently moist soil and tolerates brief dry spells. Watering every 1-2 weeks enhances growth. Thriving in full sun to partial shade, rose of sharon adapts its water usage, ensuring vibrant blooms even with fluctuating moisture.

Fertilize: Rose of sharon requires balanced nutrition for optimal growth, ideally with a 10-10-10 fertilizer applied biannually in spring and midsummer. Care should be taken to follow product specifications to avoid over-fertilization, and nutrient-rich compost can enhance results.

Pruning: Rose of sharon thrives with annual pruning in early spring. Remove dead wood and thin weak branches for better air circulation. Shape by cutting back last year's growth, avoiding heavy pruning, as it flowers on new growth. Regular pruning encourages a vigorous and floriferous plant.

Propagation: Rose of sharon propagates effectively through semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late summer, ideally measuring 4-6 inches with multiple leaves. For optimal growth, dip the cut end in rooting hormone, and plant in well-draining sandy soil while maintaining humidity and indirect sunlight until roots form.

Repotting: Repot rose of sharon every 2-3 years in early spring to promote growth. Use larger pots with good drainage. After repotting, position in partial sunlight and keep soil slightly moist without waterlogging. These practices support rose of sharon's recovery and blooming for the next season.

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Images of Rose of sharon

Distribution of Rose of sharon

Culture

Cultivars

Quickly Identify Rose of sharon

Care Guide for Rose of sharon

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