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Description
Hibiscus Syriacus Diana, also known as Rose of Sharon, is a deciduous flowering shrub that belongs to the mallow family. It is native to Asia and produces stunning white flowers with a red center that bloom from mid-summer to fall. The shrub can grow up to 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide with a rounded shape.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Hibiscus |
Appearance
The leaves of Hibiscus Syriacus Diana are green, oval-shaped, and have a serrated edge. The flowers are 3-4 inches wide with five petals that are white with a red center. The shrub blooms from mid-summer to fall and attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Its bark is gray and smooth when young, but becomes rough and brown as it ages.
Care Guide
Hibiscus Syriacus Diana is a low-maintenance shrub that is easy to care for. It prefers well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5 and full sun exposure. It can tolerate partial shade, but will have fewer flowers. Water the shrub deeply once a week, and more often during hot, dry weather. Fertilize in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer, and prune in the late winter or early spring to encourage new growth.
The shrub is hardy in USDA zones 5-9, but may require additional protection in colder climates. Mulch around the base of the shrub to protect its roots from frost and to retain moisture in the soil.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hibiscus Syriacus Diana is relatively pest and disease-free, but may be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The shrub may also be affected by leaf spot, rust, and powdery mildew. These diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation around the shrub, avoiding overhead watering, and removing infected leaves.
Habitat
Hibiscus Syriacus Diana is native to Asia, but has been widely cultivated and naturalized in many parts of the world. It can be found in gardens, parks, and along roadsides. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Hibiscus Syriacus Diana?
A: Water deeply once a week, and more often during hot, dry weather.
Q: When is the best time to prune my Hibiscus Syriacus Diana?
A: Prune in the late winter or early spring to encourage new growth.
Q: What is the pH range that Hibiscus Syriacus Diana prefers?
A: It prefers well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Hibiscus Syriacus Diana?
A: It is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Related Plants
- Hibiscus Moscheutos
- Hibiscus Rosa-Sinensis
- Hibiscus Syriacus Blue Satin
- Hibiscus Syriacus Red Heart
References
- “Hibiscus Syriacus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277077.
- “Rose of Sharon (Hibiscus Syriacus).” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/rose-of-sharon/rose-of-sharon-bush.htm.
- “Hibiscus Syriacus (Rose of Sharon).” Garden Design, www.gardendesign.com/plants/hibiscus-syriacus.
