Rose of Sharon (Blueberry Smoothie)

Scientific Name: Hibiscus syriacus 'Blueberry Smoothie'

Plant Family: Malvaceae

Native Region: Native to East Asia (China, India, Korea); naturalized in much of North America

Rose of Sharon (Blueberry Smoothie)

Brief Description

A deciduous shrub with upright growth, featuring three-lobed, medium-green leaves and large, double, bluish-purple flowers that resemble carnations.

Care Instructions

Thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Water regularly to establish a deep root system, then reduce frequency. Prune in late winter or early spring to shape and encourage larger blooms.

Medicinal Value

We do not currently provide medicinal value for plant identifications.

Sunlight

Full sun (6+ hours per day) for best flowering, though it can tolerate light shade.

Watering

Moderate; water weekly or more during extreme heat. It is drought tolerant once established but prefers consistent moisture for optimal blooming.

Soil

Rich, moist, well-draining soil; adaptable to various soil types. Prefers pH 5.5 to 7.5.

Hardiness Zone

USDA Zones 5-9

Growth Habit

Deciduous perennial shrub with an upright, vase-shaped habit. Reaches 8 feet tall and 4 feet wide at maturity.

Bloom Season

Mid to late summer; flowers are double, bluish-purple, and lack the messy seed pods of older varieties.

Toxicity

Low toxicity to humans; generally considered non-toxic to dogs, cats, and horses by the ASPCA, though ingestion may cause mild stomach upset.

Propagation

Stem cuttings (softwood or semi-hardwood) taken in summer; can also be propagated by layering.

Common Pests & Issues

Japanese beetles, aphids, and whiteflies. Potential for leaf spot, rust, or canker in high humidity.

Similar Species

Other Rose of Sharon cultivars like 'Blue Chiffon' (different flower structure) or Hibiscus rosa-sinensis (tropical hibiscus with lower cold tolerance).

Interesting Facts

This 'Blueberry Smoothie' cultivar is part of the First Editions line and is prized for its sterile nature, meaning it does not produce invasive seedlings like wild Rose of Sharon.

Created At: 2026-05-19T17:40:27.920424