Althaea syriacus 'Purpureus Variegatus'

Rose of Sharon/Hibiscus

A distinctive Rose of Sharon grown as much for its variegated foliage as for its flowers. Leaves are green edged with creamy white, often flushed pink when young, and are complemented by soft lavender-pink blooms in summer. Slower growing and more refined than standard forms.

Key features



Width: 6–8 ft



Height: 8–10 ft



Flower color: Lavender-pink to pale purple with darker eye



Bloom time: Mid to late summer



Foliage: Green with creamy white margins; young growth often pink-tinged



Form: Upright, open to vase-shaped shrub



Life cycle: Deciduous shrub



Growing conditions



Sun: Full sun (best variegation and flowering)



Soil: Average, well-drained; adaptable



Water: Moderate; drought tolerant once established



Hardiness: USDA Zones 5–9



Landscape use



Specimen shrub



Accent in mixed shrub borders



Foundation plantings



Adds foliage interest where summer color is needed



Notes



Slower growth than green-leaf Rose of Sharon types



Deer resistant once established



Attracts bees and butterflies



Blooms on new wood; prune lightly in late winter or early spring if needed

Plant type

Deciduous Shrub, Flowering Ornamental Tree

Height

8'

Width

6-8'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Sun

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Early Fall, Fall, Late Summer

Flower color

Hot Pink

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Green, Yellow

Fruit color

Brown

Attracts

Butterflies, Hummingbirds

Soil

Heavy, Loamy, Sandy, Well Drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Hedge, Mass Planting

Shape

Broad Upright, Multi Stem

Bark

Smooth

Fruit

Yes

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No