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Description
Hibiscus Syriacus Woodbridge, also known as Rose of Sharon, is a deciduous shrub native to Asia. It belongs to the family Malvaceae and is a popular ornamental plant known for its showy flowers that bloom from midsummer to fall. The flowers can be single or double and come in shades of pink, blue, purple, and white.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliophyta |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Hibiscus |
Appearance
The Hibiscus Syriacus Woodbridge can grow up to 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide. It has a round shape with a dense canopy of green leaves that turn yellow in the fall. The leaves are ovate and lobed, with a serrated edge. The flowers are large, up to 4 inches in diameter, and have a trumpet shape with five petals. They bloom from midsummer to fall and attract bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Hibiscus Syriacus Woodbridge is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate a range of soil types, but it does not like to be in standing water. Water the plant deeply once a week, especially during hot and dry weather. Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Prune the plant in the late winter or early spring to promote new growth and shape the plant.
The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9 and can tolerate temperatures as low as -20°F. In colder climates, protect the plant with a layer of mulch in the winter to prevent frost damage.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hibiscus Syriacus Woodbridge is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as rust and leaf spot, which can be caused by overwatering or poor air circulation. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and plant the shrub in a location with good air circulation. Aphids and whiteflies can also infest the plant, causing yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control these pests.
Habitat
Hibiscus Syriacus Woodbridge is native to Asia, including China, Korea, and Japan. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and along streams and rivers. It is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes for its showy flowers.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Hibiscus Syriacus Woodbridge a perennial or an annual plant?
A: Hibiscus Syriacus Woodbridge is a perennial plant.
Q: Can Hibiscus Syriacus Woodbridge grow in containers?
A: Yes, Hibiscus Syriacus Woodbridge can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots.
Q: When is the best time to prune Hibiscus Syriacus Woodbridge?
A: The best time to prune Hibiscus Syriacus Woodbridge is in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Q: How often should I fertilize Hibiscus Syriacus Woodbridge?
A: Fertilize Hibiscus Syriacus Woodbridge once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Hibiscus rosa-sinensis
- Hibiscus moscheutos
- Hibiscus acetosella
- Hibiscus syriacus Blue Bird
References
- “Hibiscus Syriacus”. Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=l100
- “Rose of Sharon: Plant Care and Collection of Varieties”. Garden.org. https://garden.org/plants/group/roseofsharon/
- “Hibiscus Syriacus”. Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/6966/hibiscus-syriacus/details
