Rose of Sharon Hibiscus syriacus 'Dorothy Crane'

Water

The Rose of Sharon (the common name for Hibiscus syriacus 'Dorothy Crane') requires regular watering, particularly when it's establishing roots in the first few growing seasons. Water deeply and thoroughly, allowing the water to soak down to the root zone. Aim for about 1-1.5 gallons of water weekly during the growing season, decreasing the frequency during cooler months or when rainfall is adequate. Avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf diseases, instead focus the water at the base of the plant. During hot, dry periods, you may need to water twice a week, while in cooler, damp conditions, watering once every two weeks may suffice.

Light

The Rose of Sharon thrives best in full sun, which means it should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. If you live in a particularly hot climate, it can benefit from light afternoon shade, but generally, the more sun, the more prolific the blooms. An east- or west-facing spot where the plant can soak up the morning or afternoon sun is ideal.

Temperature

The Rose of Sharon prefers a moderate climate and is hardy in a range between about 20 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive short periods of colder winter temperatures down to about 10 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal growing temperature would be between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit, which promotes healthy growth and flowering.

Pruning

Prune the Rose of Sharon to maintain its shape and encourage flowering. The best time to prune is late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or overcrowded branches. You can also prune to shape the plant or to control its size, cutting back to just above a set of healthy buds. Pruning is typically done annually or every couple of years, depending on the growth rate and desired size.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Rose of Sharon prefers well-draining loamy soil enriched with organic matter. A balanced soil mix, consisting of two parts loam, one part peat moss, and one part perlite or sand, makes an ideal medium. The pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.5.

Repotting

Rose of Sharon, when grown in containers, should be repotted every 2-3 years. Younger plants may need repotting more frequently, annually or biennially, due to faster growth rates. Use a slightly larger pot each time to accommodate root growth.

Humidity & Misting

Rose of Sharon thrives in average humidity levels. While it does not require high humidity, it is a hardy plant that can tolerate some fluctuations in humidity. Consistent moisture in the air is beneficial but not critical for its growth.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light, ample space, and regular watering.

• Outdoor

  Full sun, well-drained soil, and protect from strong winds.

• Hardiness zone

  5-9 USDA

Life cycle

The Rose of Sharon 'Dorothy Crane' begins its life cycle when a seed germinates in late spring after the last frost has passed, developing a root system and a shoot that emerges from the soil. As a perennial, it enters a vegetative stage, producing foliage and sturdy stems during the growing season, often reaching mature shrub form in a few years. During late summer, it enters the flowering stage, producing large, showy blooms that are white with a red center, which can attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. After pollination, the flowers develop into seed pods that mature in autumn; these seed pods eventually release seeds, propagating the next generation. In winter, the plant enters a period of dormancy, losing leaves and ceasing growth in colder climates to conserve energy. The Rose of Sharon resumes growth the following spring, continuing its cycle, which can span several decades given optimal growing conditions.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Late spring to early summer

• The Hibiscus syriacus 'Dorothy Crane', commonly known as the Rose of Sharon, is best propagated through softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. This method allows for the creation of clones of the parent plant, maintaining its characteristics. To propagate by cuttings, select a healthy shoot and cut a 4-6 inch (around 10-15 cm) piece just below a leaf node. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting and dip the cut end into rooting hormone. Then, insert the cutting into a pot filled with a mix of perlite and peat moss, ensuring high humidity and consistent moisture. Cuttings typically root in 4 to 8 weeks, after which they can be transferred to individual pots and grown on before planting out in the garden.