Hibiscus syriacus ‘Ardens’ - Rose of Sharon

This showy late-summer shrub produces large, double lilac-purple flowers with deep maroon centres, creating a soft, romantic feel in the garden. Hibiscus syriacus ‘Ardens’ has an upright, bushy form and is ideal as a statement shrub or as part of a mixed summer border. Like all hardy hibiscus, it thrives in full sun and is tolerant of a wide range of soil types once established.

Hibiscus syriacus ‘Ardens’, commonly known as Rose of Sharon, is a hardy, deciduous shrub that adds bold, long-lasting colour when many summer flowers are starting to fade.

Scientific Name
Hibiscus syriacus ‘Ardens’ (despite the species name, not native to Syria – syriacus was mistakenly applied during early botanical classification)

Common Name
Rose of Sharon, Syrian Hibiscus, Shrub Althea, Tree Hollyhock

Origin
Native to East Asia – primarily China, Korea, and parts of India; this double-flowered cultivar selected for ornamental garden use

Pruning Tips
Prune in early spring to shape and encourage flowering. Blooms form on new wood, so regular spring pruning helps boost floral display

Wildlife Value
Nectar-rich flowers attract bees and other late-season pollinators

Positioning
Full sun in a warm, sheltered spot. Suitable for borders, specimen planting, or informal hedging

Water
Water well during dry periods in the first year. Drought tolerant once established

Soil
Moist, well-drained soil – adaptable to a range of soil types including clay and loam

Food
Feed in early spring with a balanced fertiliser to support growth and flowering

Pet-safe
Generally considered non-toxic to pets

Sprouts Top Tips
This variety is a little slower to leaf out in spring, so don’t be alarmed if it appears dormant early in the season. Its double blooms make a lovely cut flower – pick when just opening and place in cool water.