1 of 4

Write now Article Tools

Page 2 of 2

however, the branches tend to relax giving the plant a wider more open air. If a more columnar shape is desired pruning away the heaviest branches will keep it more compact and upright growing.

Rose of Sharon can be used as a back drop to a perennial planting, to form garden rooms, as single specimens in the landscape, as a great addition to a mixed shrub border or, as they are most often used, as a tall, thick virtually impenetrable hedge. If planted as a hedge space them 6-12 feet apart. As a hedge it can't be beat.

Rose of Sharon, unfortunately, has a few drawbacks. The older cultivars with single flower forms have unattractive seed capsules which have a tendency to self-sow abundantly making it a bit of a nuisance for some gardeners. In a bit of a contradiction, they dislike swampy regions though they like regular water. They are one of the last to break dormancy so you'll be waiting a bit in the spring ( almost into the summer for the northern most gardeners) for the leaves to unfurl. In autumn they give nothing in the way of an autumn show. They don't change at all before the leaves drop to reveal massive amounts of grayish, bare stems.

Some of the newer cultivars recently developed for fewer seed capsule are: "Aphrodite" (Rose-pink color with red eyes), "Diana" (pure white), "Helene" (white with deep red eyes) and "Minerva" (lavender with mauve-red eyes).

Aside from these few negatives, the Rose of Sharon is indeed a wonderful plant when in flower with hundreds of lasting blossoms and bright green leaves. No garden is quite complete without one. Do give it a try.

Learn more about this author, Glory Lennon.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

• << previous page
• 1
• 2

Add your voice

Know something about How to care for a Rose of Sharon bush?
We want to hear your view. Write now!