Hibiscus syriacus Showtime

Rose of Shsaron 'Showtime'

Hibiscus syriacus ‘Showtime’ (also sold as ‘Carpa’) — commonly called Showtime Rose of Sharon — is a deciduous flowering shrub known for its striking variegated foliage and showy semi-double purple-lavender flowers with a deep red eye. The green leaves edged in creamy yellow to white provide bright contrast throughout the season, while the large hibiscus-style blooms appear from midsummer into early fall, creating strong late-season color. Its upright habit and decorative foliage make it attractive even when not in bloom.  

Type: Deciduous shrub

Mature Size:
Width: 4–5 ft
Height: 4–9 ft

USDA Zones: 5a–9b

Form: Upright, rounded shrub

Light: Full sun

Soil: Average, well-drained soil; adaptable to most soil types

Water: Moderate; drought tolerant once established

Wildlife: Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds

Features & Landscape Uses: Excellent for specimen planting, mixed shrub borders, flowering hedges, and pollinator gardens. Variegated foliage provides season-long interest and brightens landscape plantings even before flowering begins. Many plants are sterile and produce little to no seed, reducing unwanted seedlings.  

Care: Prune in late winter or early spring as flowers form on new wood. Provide regular water during establishment. Fertilize lightly in spring and remove any plain green shoots that may appear to maintain strong variegation. 🌸🌿

Plant type

Deciduous Shrub, Flowering Deciduous Shrub

Height

4-9'

Width

4-5'

Hardiness zones

5–9

Sunlight

Full Sun

Growth rate

Fast

Bloom time

Early Fall, Mid Summer

Flower color

Lavender

Fall color

Dark Spring Green

Attracts

Bees, Butterflies, Hummingbirds

Soil

Highly Adaptable, Humus rich, Well Drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Foundation Plant, Hedge, Mass Planting

Shape

Upright, Vase Shaped

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

Yes