14 Gorgeous Rose Of Sharon Varieties To Bring Some Classy Color To Your Garden

The Rose of Sharon is a popular flowering shrub that is native to Asia but has become a beloved addition to gardens all around the world.

With its stunning blooms, easy care, and ability to attract pollinators, it’s no wonder that Rose of Sharon is a go-to choice for many gardeners. 

An interesting fact about the Rose of Sharon is that it is considered the national flower of Korea.

Known there as the Mugunghwa, it is highly revered for its beauty and symbolism, with the flower representing the country’s resilience and strength, as it is able to thrive even in difficult growing conditions. 

With so many different varieties of the Rose of Sharon available, it can be difficult to know which one to choose.

In this article, we will explore some of the best rose of Sharon varieties, from classic favorites to newer hybrids, to help you select the perfect shrub for your garden. 

Whether you’re looking for bold colors, unique shapes, or maximum bloom time, we’ve got you covered. So let’s dive in and discover the best Rose of Sharon varieties!

How To Grow Rose of Sharon

Before we get into the prettiest Rose of Sharon varieties, let’s first have a look at how you can go about growing them for yourself. 

Growing Rose of Sharon is relatively easy and straightforward, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. Here are some tips on how to go about it. 

Location

Choose a location for your Rose of Sharon that receives full sun to partial shade. It also prefers well-draining soil.

Planting

Plant your Rose of Sharon in the spring or fall, making sure to dig a hole that is about twice as wide as the root ball. Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, making sure to tamp it down gently.

Watering

Water your Rose of Sharon regularly, especially during the first year of growth. It prefers to be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged.

Fertilizing

Fertilize your Rose of Sharon in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing after August, as this can encourage late-season growth that may not have time to harden off before winter.

Pruning

Prune your Rose of Sharon in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches and to shape the plant as desired. This will also encourage healthy growth and more bloom

Mulching

Apply a layer of mulch around the base of your Rose of Sharon to help retain moisture in the soil, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Pests and Diseases

Rose of Sharon is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can occasionally be affected by aphids, spider mites, or powdery mildew. To prevent or treat these issues, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil for pests, or a fungicide for mildew.

Propagation

Rose of Sharon can be propagated by taking cuttings in the summer or fall, or by layering in the spring or fall. To layer, bend a low-growing branch to the ground and bury a section of it in soil, then wait for it to root before separating it from the mother plant.

Overwintering

In colder climates, Rose of Sharon may need some winter protection, especially in the first few years after planting. You can wrap the shrub with burlap or cover it with a blanket of mulch to insulate the roots and prevent frost damage.

Deadheading

To encourage continuous blooming, you can deadhead spent flowers by cutting them off just below the bloom. This will redirect the plant’s energy into producing more flowers rather than seeds.

By following these simple tips, you can successfully grow a beautiful and healthy Rose of Sharon in your garden!

Let’s now get into the most gorgeous kinds of rose of Sharon that are sure to become a standout feature in your garden!

1. Marina (Hibiscus Syriacus ‘Marina’)

Rose of Sharon ‘Marina’ is a popular cultivar that is prized for its showy, double flowers and long blooming period.

‘Marina’ produces large, double flowers that are a vivid shade of blue-purple. The blooms have a ruffled, frilly appearance and can measure up to 3 inches across.

‘Marina’ can also grow up to 10 feet tall and wide, making it a good choice for large gardens or as a hedge or screen.

This variety of Rose of Sharon typically blooms from midsummer to early fall, providing a long season of color and interest. 

It is also relatively low maintenance, preferring well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. 

With its eye-catching flowers and impressive size, ‘Marina’ is a great choice for adding vertical interest to a garden, creating a focal point, or screening unsightly views.

2. Orchid Satin (Hibiscus Syriacus ‘Orchid Satin’)

‘Orchid Satin’ is known for its lovely orchid-colored flowers. It’s a deciduous shrub that is commonly grown in gardens and landscapes, and it is prized for its showy blooms, which typically appear in summer and fall.

The ‘Orchid Satin’ cultivar of Hibiscus syriacus has large, single, trumpet-shaped flowers that are a rich shade of pinkish-purple, with a darker center and pale pink stamens. The blooms are up to 3 inches across, and they have a papery texture that adds to their delicate beauty.

In terms of growing requirements, Hibiscus syriacus ‘Orchid Satin’ prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil that’s kept consistently moist.

It’s generally a hardy plant that’s tolerant of a range of soil types and weather conditions, but it can be susceptible to some pests and diseases, particularly if grown in conditions that are too wet or humid. 

Regular pruning can help to keep the plant healthy and promote vigorous growth and abundant flowering.

3. Sugar Tip (Hibiscus Syriacus ‘Sugar Tip’)

The ‘Sugar Tip’ is known for its attractive variegated foliage and beautiful pink flowers. It typically grows to a height of 6-8 feet and a spread of 4-6 feet.

The leaves of ‘Sugar Tip’ are oval-shaped and have a creamy-white edge that contrasts nicely with the green center. This variegation is present throughout the growing season and adds interest to the plant even when it’s not in bloom.

In summer, ‘Sugar Tip’ produces large, single, trumpet-shaped flowers that are a soft pink color with a darker pink center.

The blooms are up to 3 inches in diameter and are produced in abundance, often covering the entire shrub. They’re attractive to hummingbirds and butterflies, making this plant a great choice for wildlife gardens.

Like other Hibiscus syriacus varieties, ‘Sugar Tip’ prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil that’s kept consistently moist. It’s a relatively low-maintenance plant that’s tolerant of a range of soil types and weather conditions.

Pruning will- as mentioned- promote healthy growth and maintain a desirable shape, but it’s best done in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.

4. Lil’ Kim (Hibiscus Syriacus ‘Lil’ Kim’)

Hibiscus syriacus ‘Lil’ Kim’ is a dwarf variety of the Rose of Sharon plant that produces an abundance of small, white, double flowers. This compact shrub typically grows to a height of 3-4 feet and a spread of 4-5 feet.

The blooms of ‘Lil’ Kim’ are particularly showy, with a dark pink inner petal that spreads out and turns into a bright white.

They’re also long-lasting, typically appearing in mid-summer and continuing through early fall. The plant may even produce a second flush of blooms in warm climates.

In terms of foliage, ‘Lil’ Kim’ has attractive dark green leaves that provide a nice contrast to the white blooms. The leaves are oval-shaped and have a slightly serrated edge.

Overall, ‘Lil’ Kim’ is a great choice for small gardens, borders, or containers, where its compact size and prolific blooming will be appreciated.

5. Bluebird (Hibiscus Syriacus ‘Bluebird’)

Hibiscus syriacus ‘Bluebird’ is a variety of the Rose of Sharon plant that produces beautiful blue-violet flowers with a deep red center. 

The flowers are large, single, and trumpet-shaped, typically measuring up to 3 inches across. They bloom in summer and continue into fall, making ‘Bluebird’ a long-flowering shrub that provides color throughout the growing season.

The foliage of ‘Bluebird’ is dark green and has a slightly glossy appearance. The leaves are oval-shaped and have a serrated edge, providing a nice backdrop for the showy blooms.

‘Bluebird’ is a hardy plant that’s relatively easy to grow, tolerating a range of soil types and weather conditions.

‘Bluebird’ is a great choice for gardeners who want a low-maintenance shrub that provides striking color in the landscape. Its blue-violet flowers are sure to make a statement and attract attention from both people and pollinators.

6. Aphrodite (Hibiscus Syriacus ‘Aphrodite’)

‘Aphrodite’ is a particularly beautiful and eye-catching variety of the Rose of Sharon, typically growing to a height of 6-8 feet and has a spread of 4-6 feet. 

The leaves are dark green and glossy and are typically 2-4 inches long. The flowers are large and showy and are typically a deep pink color with a red center. They are single, semi-double, or double and can be up to 4-5 inches in diameter.

‘Aphrodite’ blooms in mid-summer to early fall, with the pretty pink flowers typically lasting for several weeks and attracting various pollinators and wildlife such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. 

The plant is also fairly easy to grow and is adaptable to a wide range of soil types and pH levels. It prefers a location with full sun to partial shade and is tolerant of heat and drought.

‘Aphrodite’ is a popular ornamental plant that is often used in hedges, borders, and as a specimen plant. It can also be grown in containers, making it a good choice for patios and balconies. 

7. Minerva (Hibiscus Syriacus ‘Minerva’)

‘Minerva’ is a particularly popular variety of the Rose of Sharon due to its large, double flowers that bloom in the late summer and fall. The flowers are typically white or light pink with a deep red center and have a diameter of about 4-5 inches.

The foliage of the Hibiscus Syriacus ‘Minerva’ is also attractive, with glossy, dark green leaves that are about 2-3 inches long. The leaves are oval-shaped and have a serrated edge. The shrub itself typically grows to a height of 6-10 feet and has a spread of 4-6 feet 

The Hibiscus Syriacus ‘Minerva’ is a beautiful and low-maintenance shrub that can add a lovely touch to any garden or landscape.

8. White Chiffon (Hibiscus Syriacus ‘White Chiffon’)

Hibiscus syriacus ‘White Chiffon’ is a beautiful and unique variety of the Rose of Sharon that has some interesting characteristics. One of the most notable features of this plant is its flower morphology, which is quite different from the traditional Hibiscus flowers.

The petals of the ‘White Chiffon’ flower are very thin and ruffled, which gives the bloom a delicate, lacy appearance. This is where the cultivar gets its name, as the blooms look like they are made of delicate, billowing chiffon fabric.

This variety is also known for its resistance to pests and diseases, making it a low-maintenance addition to any garden.

It is relatively drought-tolerant and can thrive in full sun to partial shade, although it prefers well-drained soil. The shrub can grow up to 6-8 feet tall and has a spread of 4-6 feet.

While the ‘White Chiffon’ is a stunning plant on its own, it can also be used as a striking hedge or as a backdrop for other flowering plants. It can also be pruned to maintain a smaller size or trained to grow as a small tree.

‘White Chiffon’ is a unique and elegant shrub that can bring a touch of sophistication and beauty to any garden. Its delicate blooms and low-maintenance nature make it an excellent choice for gardeners of all levels of experience.

9. Diana (Hibiscus Syriacus ‘Diana’)

‘Diana’ is another striking Rose of Sharon variety, with large, pure white flowers that bloom from mid-summer to early fall. The blooms are around 4-5 inches in diameter, though they don’t have the distinctive, contrasting red center that many of the Rose of Sharon plants do. 

Unlike many other Hibiscus varieties, the ‘Diana’ has single blooms with just five petals, giving them a simple and elegant look.

The ‘Diana’ shrub grows to a height of 6-8 feet and has a spread of 4-6 feet and whilst it prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, it can tolerate some drought once established, like some of the other varieties that we have discussed here.

One interesting aspect of the ‘Diana’ is that it is a particularly hardy variety of Hibiscus Syriacus, able to withstand colder temperatures and harsher conditions than many other cultivars.

This makes it a great choice for gardeners in colder climates who want to enjoy the beauty of a Hibiscus without the worry of it not surviving the winter.

Overall, the Hibiscus Syriacus ‘Diana’ is a unique and elegant shrub that can add a touch of class and sophistication to any garden. Its simple yet stunning blooms, cold hardiness, and various other uses make it a valuable addition to any outdoor space.

10. Pink Chiffon (Hibiscus Syriacus ‘Pink Chiffon’)

The Pink Chiffon Rose of Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus ‘Pink Chiffon’) is a beautiful and popular variety of the Hibiscus Syriacus, or Rose of Sharon, family. It has a simple yet stunning beauty, much like it’s ‘White Chiffon’ counterpart. 

‘Pink Chiffon’ produces large, double, pink flowers with a deep red center, which can reach up to 4-5 inches in diameter. The flowers have a ruffled, frilly texture that gives them a delicate and romantic look.

The ‘Pink Chiffon’ Rose of Sharon is a low-maintenance plant that can grow up to 6-8 feet tall and 4-6 feet wide, making it an ideal choice for a hedge or a beautiful focal point in a garden.

One of the advantages of the ‘Pink Chiffon’ is that it blooms later in the summer, which can help to extend the flowering season in your garden. The plant starts blooming in mid to late summer and can continue to produce flowers until the first frost. 

As well as this, the ‘Pink Chiffon’ variety is sterile, which means it won’t produce seeds and won’t become invasive, making it a safe choice for your garden.

The ‘Pink Chiffon’ Rose of Sharon is a certainly beautiful and versatile shrub that can add color, texture, and interest to any garden, but it is definitely a must for lovers of all things pink, especially flowers!

11. Lavender Chiffon (Hibiscus Syriacus ‘Lavender Chiffon’)

The ‘Lavender Chiffon’ Rose of Sharon is a stunning flowering shrub that is known for its delicate, lavender-pink blooms. 

This variety of Hibiscus syriacus is a member of the Chiffon series, which are characterized by their large, ruffled flowers with a soft, chiffon-like texture.

‘Lavender Chiffon’ typically blooms in mid-summer and continues to produce flowers through the fall.

The blooms are a beautiful shade of lavender pink without that deep red center, and they are double-layered with ruffled petals that give them a delicate, lacy appearance.

In addition to its beautiful blooms, ‘Lavender Chiffon’ is a hardy and easy-to-care-for plant. The ‘Lavender Chiffon’ can also grow up to 8-10 feet tall and 4-6 feet wide, making it a great choice for a focal point in a garden or as a hedge.

The delicate, ruffled blooms and hardy nature of the ‘Lavender Chiffon’ variety of the Rose of Sharon make it a favorite among gardeners around the world.

12. Blueberry Smoothie (Hibiscus Syriacus ‘Blueberry Smoothie’)

If blue is more your color, then the Blueberry Smoothie is sure to be your pick of a Rose of Sharon hibiscus!

What sets the ‘Blueberry Smoothie’ apart from other Rose of Sharon varieties is its stunning blue-green foliage, which creates a lovely contrast against the plant’s striking lavender-blue double blooms. 

The flowers have a ruffled, frilly texture and can grow up to 3-4 inches in diameter. They appear in mid-summer and continue blooming through the fall.

The ‘Blueberry Smoothie’ can also grow up to 6-8 feet tall and 4-6 feet wide, making it a great choice for a focal point or a hedge.

The Hibiscus syriacus known creatively as the ‘Blueberry Smoothie’ (don’t try to drink it though!) is a unique and eye-catching shrub that can add a splash of color and interest to any garden.

13. Purple Pillar (Hibiscus Syriacus ‘Purple Pillar’)

The ‘Purple Pillar’ is a relatively new cultivar, having been introduced in the early 2000s, and has since become a popular choice for gardeners looking for a tall, narrow shrub that is both easy to care for and visually striking. 

It is also a little different from some of the other Rose of Sharon hibiscus varieties, as it has a striking vertical growth habit.

Unlike most other Rose of Sharon cultivars, which tend to be sprawling and bushy, the ‘Purple Pillar’ grows in a tall, narrow column, reaching heights of up to 10 feet and widths of only 2-3 feet.

This makes it an ideal choice for smaller gardens or as a focal point in a larger landscape.

The ‘Purple Pillar’ is also known for its beautiful deep purple blooms, which appear from mid-summer to early fall. The flowers are about 2-3 inches in diameter and have a delicate, almost translucent appearance.

The blooms are single, with five petals, and can reach up to 3 inches in diameter. The foliage is a deep green color and is relatively disease-resistant, making it an easy plant to care for.

Another unique feature of the ‘Purple Pillar’ is its versatility. It can be grown as a specimen plant, a hedge, or even in a container, making it a great choice for gardeners with limited space.

Its tall, narrow growth habit also makes it a perfect plant when it comes to creating privacy screens or windbreaks.

14. Lucy (Hibiscus Syriacus ‘Lucy’)

Last, but certainly not least, we have the ‘Lucy’ variety of the Rose of Sharon plants. ‘Lucy’ is known for its beautiful double blooms that appear in summer and continue blooming through the fall.

The flowers of the ‘Lucy’ cultivar are a lovely shade of pink and have a ruffled, frilly texture. They can grow up to 4 inches in diameter, making them larger than many other Hibiscus varieties.

The plant also has dark green leaves that provide a lovely backdrop for the blooms.

The ‘Lucy’ Rose of Sharon can grow up to 8-10 feet tall and 4-6 feet wide, making it a great choice for a focal point in a garden or as a hedge. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.

The plant is also relatively drought tolerant once established, making it a good choice for gardens with limited water.

One of the unique features of the ‘Lucy’ cultivar is its cold hardiness. It can tolerate temperatures as low as -20°F (-28.9°C), making it a great choice for gardeners in colder climates. The plant is also relatively disease-resistant and requires minimal maintenance.

The ‘Lucy’ variety of the Rose of Sharon is another must for those who love to spruce up their garden with a bit of pink vibrancy, as well as for those who prefer the simple yet stunning varieties of the Rose of Sharon hibiscuses. 

Final Thoughts

From the unique and eye-catching ‘Purple Pillar’ to the delicate and frilly ‘Lucy,’ there are many beautiful varieties of the Rose of Sharon to choose from. Each one offers its own unique features and benefits, from cold hardiness to disease resistance.

Whether you’re looking for a focal point in your garden or a hedge to border your property, any variety of the Rose of Sharon is a great choice. 

With minimal maintenance requirements and the ability to thrive in a variety of growing conditions, this stunning shrub is sure to delight for years to come. 

So go ahead and add a touch of beauty to your garden with one of the most beautiful varieties of the Rose of Sharon!

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