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Description
Hibiscus Syriacus William R. Smith, commonly known as Rose of Sharon or Korean hibiscus, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the family Malvaceae. This plant is native to Asia and produces showy, funnel-shaped flowers that bloom from mid-summer to fall. The flowers come in a range of colors, including pink, purple, white, and blue, and are often used in ornamental gardening and landscaping.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Hibiscus |
Appearance
Hibiscus Syriacus William R. Smith typically grows to a height of 8-12 feet and a spread of 6-10 feet. The leaves are dark green and glossy, with a serrated edge, and are 2-4 inches long. The flowers are 2-4 inches in diameter and have five petals that form a trumpet shape. The plant blooms from mid-summer to fall and produces an abundance of flowers, which makes it a popular choice for ornamental gardening and landscaping.
Care Guide
Hibiscus Syriacus William R. Smith requires regular watering, especially during periods of drought. The plant prefers well-drained soil and should be fertilized in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. The plant also needs full sunlight to thrive, although it can tolerate some shade. Hibiscus Syriacus William R. Smith is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hibiscus Syriacus William R. Smith is susceptible to a range of pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, scale insects, and powdery mildew. To prevent these issues, it is important to keep the plant well-watered and fertilized, and to remove any dead or diseased branches promptly.
Habitat
Hibiscus Syriacus William R. Smith is native to Asia, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, scrublands, and grasslands. In the United States, the plant is commonly used in ornamental gardening and landscaping, and is often found in parks, gardens, and residential landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: When is the best time to prune Hibiscus Syriacus William R. Smith?
A: The best time to prune the plant is in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Q: How often should I fertilize Hibiscus Syriacus William R. Smith?
A: The plant should be fertilized once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Hibiscus Syriacus William R. Smith tolerate cold temperatures?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9 and can tolerate cold temperatures as low as -15°F.
Q: How often should I water Hibiscus Syriacus William R. Smith?
A: The plant should be watered regularly, especially during periods of drought.
Related Plants
- Hibiscus rosa-sinensis
- Hibiscus moscheutos
- Hibiscus acetosella
- Hibiscus mutabilis
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2009). Manual of woody landscape plants: their identification, ornamental characteristics, culture, propagation and uses. Stipes Publishing.
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Hibiscus syriacus. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c615
- RHS. (n.d.). Hibiscus syriacus. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/18063/hibiscus-syriacus/details
