Rose of Sharon (Blueberry Smoothie)
Hibiscus syriacus 'Blueberry Smoothie'
A deciduous shrub with upright growth, featuring three-lobed, medium-green leaves and large, double, bluish-purple flowers that resemble carnations.
- Light
- Full sun (6+ hours per day) for best flowering, though it can tolerate light shade.
- Water
- Moderate; water weekly or more during extreme heat. It is drought tolerant once established but prefers consistent moisture for optimal blooming.
- Growth
- Deciduous perennial shrub with an upright, vase-shaped habit. Reaches 8 feet tall and 4 feet wide at maturity.
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.
Growing details
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.
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.