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Description
Hibiscus Syriacus Hamabo, also known as Rose of Sharon or Syrian hibiscus, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the mallow family. It is native to eastern Asia and is widely cultivated for its showy flowers that bloom in late summer and fall. The plant can grow up to 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide, making it ideal for hedges, screens, or as a specimen plant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Hibiscus |
Appearance
Hibiscus Syriacus Hamabo has dark green leaves that are oval-shaped and serrated. The flowers are large and funnel-shaped, measuring up to 4 inches in diameter. They come in shades of pink, white, purple, and blue, and have a prominent dark red center. The plant blooms from July to September and can produce flowers for several weeks.
Care Guide
To keep Hibiscus Syriacus Hamabo healthy and thriving, it needs to be watered regularly, fertilized, planted in well-draining soil, given plenty of sunlight, and protected from extreme temperatures. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9, which means it can tolerate temperatures as low as -20°F. Here are some tips on how to care for your hibiscus:
- Water: Hibiscus Syriacus Hamabo needs to be watered regularly, especially during the summer months. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: The plant should be fertilized in early spring with a balanced fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
- Soil: Hibiscus Syriacus Hamabo prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. You can add compost or peat moss to improve the soil quality.
- Sunlight: The plant needs to be planted in a spot that gets full sun or partial shade. It should get at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: Hibiscus Syriacus Hamabo is hardy in USDA zones 5-9, which means it can tolerate temperatures as low as -20°F.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hibiscus Syriacus Hamabo is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by some common issues, including:
- Spider mites: These tiny bugs can cause discoloration and webbing on the leaves.
- Whiteflies: These small, white insects can suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to yellow and wilt.
- Fungal diseases: Hibiscus Syriacus Hamabo can be affected by fungal diseases like powdery mildew and leaf spot, which can cause discoloration and leaf drop.
To prevent these issues, make sure to keep your plant healthy by following the care guide above. If you do notice any pests or diseases, you can treat them with insecticidal soap or fungicide.
Habitat
Hibiscus Syriacus Hamabo is native to eastern Asia, including China, Japan, and Korea. It grows in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, hillsides, and along rivers and streams. The plant is widely cultivated in gardens and parks around the world.
Question and Answer
Here are some frequently asked questions about Hibiscus Syriacus Hamabo:
Q: How often should I water my hibiscus?
A: Hibiscus Syriacus Hamabo needs to be watered regularly, especially during the summer months. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Q: Can hibiscus be grown in pots?
A: Yes, hibiscus can be grown in pots as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should I fertilize my hibiscus?
A: The plant should be fertilized in early spring with a balanced fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Q: When is the best time to prune my hibiscus?
A: Hibiscus Syriacus Hamabo should be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Related Plants
- Hibiscus rosa-sinensis
- Hibiscus moscheutos
- Hibiscus syriacus Blue Bird
- Hibiscus syriacus Diana
References
- “Hibiscus Syriacus Hamabo.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 25 May 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286130&isprofile=0&basic=hibiscus%20syriacus.
- “Rose of Sharon Plant Care & Growing Guide.” Garden Design. Accessed 25 May 2021. https://www.gardendesign.com/plants/rose-of-sharon.html.
- “Hibiscus syriacus.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 25 May 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/19716/Hibiscus-syriacus/Details.
