Ardens Rose of Sharon

Ardens Rose of Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus 'Ardens')

Ardens Rose of Sharon is an upright, multi-stem shrub bearing large, fully double rose-purple flowers with a darker maroon eye from mid to late summer into early fall. Its vase-shaped habit and reliable bloom add color when many shrubs are quiet, fitting sunny borders, screens, and courtyard specimens.

Distinctive Features

Showy peony-like blooms cover new wood over a long season, attracting pollinators and holding color well in summer heat. Adaptable nature tolerates urban conditions and varied soils while maintaining a tidy outline with light pruning.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to light shade, with best flowering in full sun.
• Soil: Average, well drained soil; tolerant of alkaline and urban soils.
• Water: Moderate; keep evenly moist during establishment, then water during extended dry spells.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 9.
• Mature Size: About 8 to 12 ft tall and 6 to 8 ft wide.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Double, rose-purple blooms create a summer centerpiece.
• Hedges and Screens: Forms a flowering privacy wall with seasonal interest.
• Specimen: Stands out as a small tree or multi-stem accent near entries.
• Mixed Borders: Provides late-season color among perennials and shrubs.
• Urban Landscapes: Handles heat, reflected light, and city soils.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Deeply water the first growing season; reduce frequency once established.
• Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to shape and encourage vigorous new-wood flowering.
• Fertilizing: Feed lightly in spring if growth is weak; avoid excessive nitrogen that reduces bloom.
• Mulching: Apply a 2 inch mulch to conserve moisture and moderate soil temperature, keeping mulch off the stems.
• Notes: Tolerates heat and drought once established; deadhead spent flowers in formal settings if desired.

Why Choose Ardens Rose of Sharon?

• Summer Bloom Power: Flowers prolifically when few shrubs are in color.
• Double Flowers: Peony-like blooms deliver lush texture and presence.
• Adaptable: Thrives in a wide range of soils and urban sites.
• Space Efficient: Upright habit fits narrow beds and screen lines.
• Easy Care: Simple pruning and modest water needs after establishment.

Plant in full sun with well drained soil, prune in late winter to refresh growth, and provide occasional deep watering in summer to maximize bloom and structure.