ROSE OF SHARON

The plant most gardeners call Rose of Sharon, isn't a rose at all, but a Hibiscus. Its large blossoms attract hummingbirds and the tiny insects these wonderful birds eat. The flowers can come in several colors, including white, pink, purple, and red. Its leaves don't come out until late in spring, causing false alarms in gardeners who think their plants may have died.Hibiscus syriacus produces its flowers in mid-to late summer (peaking in late August) when few other shrubs bloom. The plant can grow up to 10 feet tall and spread beyond 6 feet. You can plant it in sun or partial shade and in any soil. Single or double flowers are in shades of red, pink, white and purple, depending on the variety. They make great hedges.

Hibiscus Syriacus