Rose of Sharon Hibiscus syriacus 'Helene'
ABOUT
The Rose of Sharon 'Helene' is a decidirectional shrub known for its ornamental qualities and striking flowers. The plant sports a lush, bushy appearance with broad green leaves that provide a dense backdrop to its blossoms. The leaves are medium to dark green in color, with a slightly glossy texture and a smooth margin. The flowers of 'Helene' are single, with a trumpet-like form, and primarily white. Each bloom features a prominent red or burgundy eye at its center, creating a bold contrast that draws attention. These eye-catching blooms are relatively large and typically spotted throughout the shrub. The flowering period extends from mid-summer into the fall, during which time the plant provides a continuous show of color. Overall, Rose of Sharon 'Helene' is a stunning addition to any garden, offering a balance of robust foliage and vibrant, showy flowers that are capable of transforming a landscape with their lively display.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Malvaceae
Synonyms
Rose Of Sharon, Shrub Althea, Hardy Hibiscus, Syrian Ketmia, Rose Mallow
Common names
Hibiscus syriacus 'Helene'
ToxicityTo humans
Rose of Sharon is generally considered to have a low level of toxicity to humans. It is not commonly associated with severe poisoning, and ingesting small quantities is unlikely to cause more than mild stomach upset, if any symptoms at all.
To pets
Rose of Sharon is known to be toxic to pets, particularly dogs and cats, if ingested. The symptoms of poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and general gastrointestinal distress. In large enough quantities, more serious symptoms such as loss of appetite, depression, and other complications could potentially occur. If you suspect your pet has ingested this plant, it's recommended to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
8-10 feet (2.4-3 meters)
Spread
6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5-8
Native area
East Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Hibiscus syriacus 'Helene', commonly known as Rose of Sharon, has large, showy blooms that enhance the aesthetic appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, Rose of Sharon is relatively easy to care for, requiring minimal attention beyond occasional pruning and watering.
- Drought Tolerance: Rose of Sharon can withstand periods of dry weather, making it suitable for gardens in regions with water scarcity or for gardeners seeking low-water-use plants.
- Late Blooming: It flowers in late summer, providing color and interest in the garden when many other plants have finished blooming.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects, which are beneficial for the garden ecosystem.
- Variety of Uses: Rose of Sharon can be used as a specimen plant, hedge, screen, or foundation planting, offering versatility in landscape design.
- Tolerance of Conditions: It tolerates a range of soil types and conditions, from urban environments to different pH levels, making it adaptable to various settings.
- Privacy: Its dense growth habit can provide privacy when used as a hedge or screen.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Hibiscus syriacus 'Helene', commonly known as Rose of Sharon, can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, imparting a delicate pink or mauve hue depending on the mordant used.
- In some cultures, the Rose of Sharon is used as an edible garnish for salads and desserts, adding a touch of color and a mild flavor.
- Wood from the Rose of Sharon is sometimes utilized in the creation of small wooden objects like handles or crafts, prized for its fine grain.
- Petals of the Rose of Sharon can be used in the paper-making process, creating decorative paper with petal inclusions for artistic purposes.
- During landscape designing, this plant is often implemented as a natural privacy screen due to its dense growth habit.
- Flowers of the Rose of Sharon are incorporated into some natural cosmetic products for their skin-soothing properties.
- The nectar-rich flowers can be a food source for domesticated bees in beekeeping practices, supporting honey production.
- Due to its long-lasting blooms, the Rose of Sharon serves as a source of cut flowers for floral arrangements and bouquets.
- The flowers are occasionally used in the craft of making flower preserves and jams, giving a subtle floral undertone to the preserves.
- Traditional ink-making can occasionally include the use of Rose of Sharon petals, providing a unique color for art and calligraphy.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Rose of Sharon is not specifically used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Rose of Sharon is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Feminine Energy: The delicate and often vibrant blooms of the hibiscus represent femininity and beauty in many cultures.
- Delicate Beauty: Hibiscus flowers are associated with delicate beauty, perhaps due to their soft, large, and colorful petals.
- Royalty: In some contexts, the hibiscus can symbolize a regal presence or royal lineage, related to its striking appearance.
- Inviting Positive Energy: The hibiscus is seen as a magnet for good vibrations and positive energies, encouraging a welcoming environment.
- Glory: The flower can stand for personal glory or celebration of achievements, with its lush and eye-catching blossoms.
- Hospitality: In some traditions, the hibiscus is a symbol of hospitality, inviting guests warmly into one's home.
WaterThe Rose of Sharon requires even moisture but needs to be watered deeply and infrequently to encourage a strong root system. Usually, watering once a week with about 1 to 1.5 inches of water is sufficient, but you may need to water more often during hot and dry periods. To ensure the soil has absorbed enough water, it is best to water until the soil is moist at least 8 inches deep. It is important to avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf diseases, so aim the water directly at the soil around the base of the plant. During the winter months, reduce watering since the plant will be dormant and requires less moisture.
LightThe Rose of Sharon thrives in full sun to partial shade. Ideally, it should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. The best spot for this plant is an area where it is exposed to unfiltered sunlight for the majority of the day, with some afternoon shade in extremely hot climates to prevent scorching.
TemperatureThe Rose of Sharon is hardy in a wide range of temperatures but grows best when the weather is between 60°F and 85°F. It can survive minimum winter temperatures down to around 20°F. However, it will struggle and possibly sustain damage if exposed to temperatures below this range. The ideal conditions for this plant involve warm summers and cooler winters without extreme temperature fluctuations.
PruningPruning Rose of Sharon is important for maintaining shape, encouraging bushier growth, and prompting more prolific flowering. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Cutting back about one-third of the older branches each year promotes healthy growth and allows sunlight to reach the inner branches. Additionally, dead or damaged wood should be removed as soon as it is noticed to keep the plant healthy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilRose of Sharon thrives in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 5.5 to 7.5. A mixture composed of two parts loam, one part peat moss, and one part perlite or coarse sand can work well, providing the necessary drainage and nutrient support for optimal growth.
RepottingYou should repot the Rose of Sharon every 2 to 3 years to ensure it has enough room for root growth and to replenish its soil with a fresh, nutrient-rich mix.
Humidity & MistingRose of Sharon prefers moderate to high humidity levels but is adaptable and tolerant of a range of humidity conditions typical of outdoor environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Rose of Sharon in bright light near a sunny window.
Outdoor
Ensure full sun exposure, and shield from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of the Rose of Sharon 'Helene' begins with seed germination, which typically occurs in spring when temperatures are warm enough to facilitate growth. Following germination, the seedling stage involves the emergence of the cotyledons (seed leaves) and establishment of the plant's root system in the soil. As the plant enters the vegetative growth stage, it develops true leaves and stems, expanding in size and beginning to form the characteristic structure of a shrub. Once it reaches maturity, the Rose of Sharon 'Helene' enters the flowering stage, usually in late spring or early summer, producing large, showy white flowers with a red center that serve as attractants for pollinators. After pollination, the plant develops seed pods in the summer or early fall, which, when mature, release seeds to complete the reproductive cycle. During the winter, the plant experiences a period of dormancy where growth ceases in preparation for the next cycle to begin in spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Late Winter - Early Spring
The most popular method of propagation for the Rose of Sharon 'Helene' is by softwood cuttings. In early to mid-summer, choose a healthy, non-flowering shoot and cut a section that is 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long. The base of the cutting should be a portion of the stem that is just beginning to mature and harden. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting to expose the nodes where roots will form. Dip the base of the cutting in a rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth. Then, insert the cutting into a pot filled with a mixture of peat and perlite or sand, ensuring the leafless nodes are buried. Keep the pot in a warm place with indirect light and maintain the moisture levels consistently. Roots should develop in a few weeks, after which the young plant can be gradually acclimatized to outdoor conditions and eventually planted in its permanent location.
