ExplorePlants

Rose of Sharon

Hibiscus syriacus

The Rose of Sharon is a special kind of hibiscus that blooms beautifully in summer. Its flowers are often large and stunning!

Habitat: Gardens and sunny areas

Appearance

The Rose of Sharon has large, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom in white, pink, purple, or blue, often with a contrasting deep red or purple eye. These vibrant blossoms sit on an upright, multi-stemmed shrub.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderMalvalesFamilyMalvaceaeGenusHibiscus
Rose of Sharon
deciduous trait badgeshrub trait badgesummer_blooming trait badgefragrant_flower trait badge
Rose of Sharon

Category

Plants

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

9

Interesting facts

Despite its name, it's not a rose at all; it's a member of the hibiscus family!

Its stunning, trumpet-shaped flowers can be as big as a child's hand!

Some varieties create a striking "eye" of contrasting color at the flower's center!

This tough plant can grow over 10 feet tall, almost like a small tree!

Special abilities

Ability

Endless Blooms

Rose of Sharon can produce abundant, showy flowers all summer long, ensuring many chances for pollination and seed production.

Ability

Thirsty Plant Protector

Has thick, tough leaves that help it reduce water loss, allowing it to thrive even during dry spells.

Ability

Seed Launcher

Develops sturdy seed pods that burst open to release seeds, helping new plants grow far and wide.

Measurements & details

Height
200-400 cm
Spread
150-300 cm
Flower Size
5-10 cm
Bloom Season
Summer-fall
Edible
Yes
Toxicity
None
Lifecycle
Perennial
Pollination Method
Insect

Ecological connections

pollinates

honey bee

Apis mellifera

Bees collect nectar and pollen, aiding in reproduction.

pollinates

common eastern bumblebee

Bombus impatiens

Bumblebees are vital pollinators for its showy flowers.

pollinates

eastern tiger swallowtail

Papilio glaucus

Butterflies sip nectar, transferring pollen between flowers.

eaten by

white-tailed deer

Odocoileus virginianus

Deer browse on its leaves and tender stems.

Traits

Also known as

Rose of Sharon HibiscusShrub Althea

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Explore with care and ask an adult if you’re unsure what to do.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to identify Rose of Sharon?

The easiest way to identify Rose of Sharon is to use the Snappit nature identifier app.

How tall is Rose of Sharon?

200-400 cm

How wide does Rose of Sharon spread?

150-300 cm

How big are the flowers on Rose of Sharon?

5-10 cm

When does Rose of Sharon bloom?

Summer-fall

Is Rose of Sharon edible?

Yes

Is Rose of Sharon toxic?

None

What is Rose of Sharon's lifecycle?

Perennial

Snap Map

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