How to Grow Rose Of Sharon Tree - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2024

Rose of sharon tree is a beautiful flowering plant that can add color and life to any garden or landscape. The rose of sharon is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 12 feet tall and 10 feet wide. The rose of sharon tree is covered in beautiful, fragrant flowers that bloom from June to September. The rose of sharon tree is a great choice for anyone looking to add some color and life to their garden or landscape.

How to Grow Rose Of Sharon Tree - Plant Care & Tips

Also called

  • Althea rose
  • Hibiscus syriacus
  • Shrub althea
  • Rose mallow
  • Swamp rose mallow

Common Knowledge

  • The rose of sharon tree is a deciduous shrub or small tree that is native to Asia.
  • It is characterized by its showy, pink or white flowers that bloom in late summer or early fall.
  • The rose of sharon tree is relatively easy to grow and is tolerant of a wide range of growing conditions.
  • It does best in full sun and well-drained soil.
  • The rose of sharon tree is relatively drought tolerant once established.
  • It is also tolerant of salt and can be used as a coastal landscape plant.
  • The rose of sharon tree can reach a height of 15-20 feet and a spread of 10-15 feet.
  • It has a moderate growth rate.
  • The rose of sharon tree is relatively pest and disease free.
  • It is an attractive tree that can provide color and interest to the landscape.

Related plant:
Modern Shrub Rose

How to Grow

  1. For rose of sharon tree, first step is to procure a young sapling or tree from a nursery.
  2. Once you have procured the sapling, it is time to plant it in your desired location.
  3. Make sure to mix some compost or manure in the soil before planting the sapling.
  4. Water the sapling thoroughly after planting and keep the soil moist.
  5. Fertilize the rose of sharon tree regularly as per the directions given on the fertilizer packet.
  6. Prune the tree regularly to maintain its shape and to encourage new growth.
  7. Keep an eye out for pests and diseases and treat them accordingly.
  8. Harvest the flowers of the rose of sharon tree when they bloom.
  9. You can also collect the seeds from the flowers and propagate new plants.
  10. Enjoy the beauty of your rose of sharon tree for many years to come!

Related plant:
Climbing Rose Bush

Soil Condition

About soil condition, the Rose of Sharon tree grows well in any type of soil as long it is well-drained. The tree is relatively drought-tolerant once it is established, though it will produce more flowers if given additional water during extended dry periods.

About light

Similar to other plants, the rose of Sharon tree needs sun to grow. However, it is much more tolerant of shady conditions than other trees. It can even tolerate being in the shade for part of the day. This makes it a good choice for areas that do not get a lot of sun.

Good Temperature

The temperature condition that is best for the growth of the rose of Sharon tree is a warm climate. This tree grows best in temperatures that are between 68 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. The rose of Sharon tree will not tolerate freezing temperatures. If the temperature dips below freezing, the tree will die.

Humidity Level

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 50% or less. The rose of sharon tree will do best in dry conditions and will suffer in high humidity. leaves may start to yellow and drop off. The tree may also be more susceptible to pests and diseases.

The Fertilizer

Regarding fertilizer, this plant is not very demanding. A light application of a general-purpose fertilizer in early spring is all that is needed. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's directions. As far as watering, the rose of Sharon is quite drought-tolerant once established. It is best to let the soil dry out somewhat between watering. establish a regular watering schedule during its first growing season. Thereafter, water only when the soil is dry to the touch.

Plant Pruning

Pruning a rose of sharon tree is important to keeping the tree healthy and vibrant. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. When pruning, remove any dead or dying branches, as well as any crossing orrubbing branches. Also, thin out the interior of the tree to allow more light and air to reach the lower branches.

About Propagating

Propagation is best done in early spring, before the plant breaks dormancy. Cuttings should be taken from young, healthy stems that are about 6 inches long. Make sure to cut just below a node, and remove the lower leaves. The cuttings can be placed in a moistened potting mix, and covered with a plastic bag to create a humid environment. After a few weeks, the cuttings should have rooted and can be transplanted into individual pots.

Growth Speed

Usually, the plant growth rate is determined by the species. However, the growing conditions also play a role in the growth of the tree. If the rose of sharon tree is grown in ideal conditions, then it will have a faster growth rate.

Common Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are aphids, scale, wetwood, and sooty mold. Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of plants. They are typically green or black and can be found on the undersides of leaves. Scale are small, hard-bodied insects that feed on the sap of plants. They are usually brown or black and can be found on the stems or leaves of plants. Wetwood is a condition caused by a bacterial infection that affects the sapwood of trees. It can cause the tree to leak sap or water and can eventually kill the tree. Sooty mold is a black fungus that grows on the leaves of plants. It is usually caused by aphids or scale feeding on the sap of plants.

List to Know

  • If you are growing rose of sharon tree from seed, it is best to start them indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last frost date in your area.
  • Sow the seeds on the surface of a well-draining seed starting mix and water them gently.
  • Place the seed tray in a warm location out of direct sunlight and keep the soil moist.
  • Once the seedlings emerge, thin them out so that only the strongest seedling remains in each cell or pot.
  • Fertilize the seedlings monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
  • When the seedlings are about 6-8 inches tall, transplant them into individual pots or the garden.
  • Rose of sharon tree prefers full sun but can tolerate some light shade.
  • Plant the tree in a location with well-drained soil.
  • Water the tree regularly, especially during the first year after

Alternative Plants

  • pichodia
  • pachira aquatica
  • youpon
  • yaupon holly
  • yellow poui
  • yellow poplar
  • yellow pagoda flower
  • yellow of china
  • yeash
  • yaupon

Source:
Rose of Sharon varieties give options for gardens
Hibiscus syriacus 'Diana' (Diana Hibiscus, Diana Rose-of-sharon ...
Hibiscus syriacus: Rose-of-Sharon - University of Florida

Richelle Author Photo
Reviewed & Published by Richelle
Submitted by our contributor
Shrubs Category