(Hibiscus syriacus) Perennial. Deciduous. Zones 5-8.

Hibiscus is often thought of as a tropical flower but amazingly it can be grown in our Northern climate! Rose of Sharon is low maintenance, easy to grow shrub with big floral results! 3-4 inch flowers are abundant and vary from light pinks to fuchsia. Flowers come on mid-late Summer and continue until the coolness of late Autumn.

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Cold Hardiness: Zones 5 – 8

Edible: Yes, flower petals make a tangy tea or faux pink lemonade.

Size: Medium Shrub

Growth Rate: Medium

Nitrogen Fixer: No

Native Plant: No

Germination: 70 – 90%

Sun requirements: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil Requirements: Rich, moist, well draining soil, but drought tolerant.

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GROWING INSTRUCTIONS

SEED PRETREATMENT: Seeds benefit from scarification—gently scratch the seed surface with fine sandpaper. Then soak seeds in water for 24 hours.

STRATIFICATION: No stratification period is required.

SEEDING: Sow soaked seeds on the soils surface, tamp down  gently. Water evenly and regularly. Alternating soil temperatures during the day (30°C) and night (20°C) can aid germination.

GERMINATION: When all previously mentioned requirements are fulfilled, germination generally occurs in 30 days.