Description
Hibiscus syriacus 'Red Heart' | Rose of Sharon
The Hibiscus syriacus 'Red Heart', commonly known as the rose of Sharon, is a captivating flowering shrub that adds a touch of elegance to any garden. Renowned for its stunning blooms and upright growth habit, this cultivar is a favorite among gardeners who wish to bring a vibrant splash of color to their outdoor spaces.
The Rose of Sharon is a deciduous shrub, which means that it loses its leaves in the winter. However, this is more than made up for by the beautiful flowers that it produces in the summer and autumn.
Key Features
Key features of the Hibiscus syriacus 'Red Heart' include:
- The shrub's blossoms are a striking combination of red and white, with a bold red center that stands out against the white petals.
- Flowering from July to September, it provides a long-lasting display of color when many other plants have faded.
- It reaches an ultimate height of approximately 2 meters, making it suitable for a variety of garden sizes and uses, whether as a border, in group plantings, or as a solitary focal point.
- The Rose of Sharon is fruit-bearing, which can add interest to the garden even after the flowering period has ended.
- It has an upright growth form, which ensures that it takes up less horizontal space in the garden.
- The plant is not particular about soil type, as long as it is well-drained, and it can thrive in both sun and partial shade.
Tips
- While the Hibiscus syriacus 'Red Heart' doesn't require much pruning, it can be pruned lightly after blooming to maintain shape and encourage more prolific future blooms.
- Ensure that the Rose of Sharon receives average water needs, especially in periods of drought, to keep it healthy and stress-free.
- Plant your Hibiscus in a location that receives ample sunshine to promote the best flowering, though it will also tolerate partial shade.
- For propagation, take semi-ripe cuttings in the late summer. These can be rooted in a potting medium to grow new plants.