About Hibiscus syriacus L.
Hibiscus syriacus L. is a hardy deciduous shrub. It grows with an upright, vase-shaped form, reaching 2–4 m (7–13 feet) in height. It produces large trumpet-shaped flowers that have prominent yellow-tipped white stamens. Flower color is most often pink, but can also be dark pink (nearly purple), light pink, or white. Each individual flower only lives for one day. However, the shrub produces numerous buds on new growth, leading to abundant blooming over a long summer flowering period. Hibiscus syriacus thrives in moist, well-drained, organically rich soil. It is highly tolerant of air pollution, heat, humidity, poor soil, and drought. This species has naturalized successfully in many suburban areas, and seeds so frequently that it can be considered slightly invasive.
While it does not develop notable fall color and can grow stiff and ungainly if improperly pruned, Hibiscus syriacus remains a popular ornamental shrub today, with many developed cultivars. Fully grown plants tolerate a wide range of conditions, including frost, drought, and urban pollution. The best growth and flowering occur when it is grown in a warm, sheltered location, full sun, and well-drained neutral soil.
