Rose of Sharon
hibiscus syriacus
Also known as: ["Althea","Shrub Althea","Rose of Althea"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub known for its large, showy flowers that bloom in summer and fall.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Genus: | Hibiscus |
| Botanical Name: | Hibiscus syriacus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if indoor air is very dry
- Drainage: Fast-draining to moderate-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loam with organic matter. Avoid heavy clay or waterlogged soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on desired shape and size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer blooms.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun if moved from shade. Protect from intense midday sun in hot climates. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing near reflective surfaces.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, every 14 days in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf diseases.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate fertility
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers 60–85°F (15–29°C). Hardy to USDA zones 5–8, tolerating mild frosts but sensitive to prolonged cold or heat.
Protect from frost; water deeply in heat; adjust care for seasonal shifts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize in spring and summer only; water before and after feeding; avoid contact with roots.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), partial shade.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, misting bottle, plastic bag or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent stock; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning, heading back, and removal of crossing or weak branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to shape, remove dead/diseased wood, and encourage flowering on new growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune before bud break; remove dead/diseased wood; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in new pot with fresh soil, water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Necessary for container-grown plants to maintain vigor.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if needed; water well after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for weather.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth. Ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, reducing frequency in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, stunted growth, or flower bud abortion in extreme temperatures.
Cold Stress
Leaves may yellow or drop, growth slows, and buds may fail to open in temperatures below 20°F (-6°C).
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter, protect from cold winds, and move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering during prolonged heat above 90°F (32°C).
Solution: Provide afternoon shade, increase watering, and use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring/summer; water thoroughly after feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Apply again after blooming. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prevent excessive foliage growth.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHibiscus syriacus is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion of any part of this plant by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicHibiscus syriacus is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion of any part of this plant by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicHibiscus syriacus is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with the consumption of any part of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Hibiscus syriacus be watered?
A: Water deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Hibiscus syriacus require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: When does Hibiscus syriacus bloom?
A: It typically blooms from mid-summer to early fall.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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