Rose of Sharon

When I purchased Crest Avenue in March 2001, there was a Rose of Sharon hedge planted along one side of the front yard.  The owners on that side, Andrea and David, planted this hedge some years earlier, so it was quite mature when I moved in.  Over the past 11 years, it has grown taller and more dense.  Each year it shows off with these beautiful pink flowers with brilliant red centers that striate out over the pink petals.

Rose of Sharon Hedge

These blooms remind me of Hibiscus.  Actually, Rose of Sharon and Hibiscus are in the same family, however Rose of Sharon are more hardy.  They can grow to 15' high, while Hibiscus usually die back in the winter and reemerge in the spring.  Also the Hisbiscus bloom is, in some instances, twice the size of the Rose of Sharon.  I would definitely suggest that you try Rose of Sharon in your garden.  They are easy to grow.  Select a site with full sun to light shade and moist, well-drained soil.  Plant in spring or fall. Space plants 6 to 10 feet apart, depending on the expected mature size of the plant. Dig a hole only as deep as the root ball and 2 to 3 times as wide. If your soil is in poor condition, amend the soil you've removed from the hole with a small amount of compost. Otherwise don't amend it at all. Remove the plant from the container and set it in the hole. Fill the hole half full with soil, then water it well to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets. Let the water drain, then fill the remainder of hole with soil and water thoroughly.  You can also add a 2-inch layer of mulch to retain moisture and control weeds.