Hibiscus Syriacus Speciosus

Hibiscus Syriacus Speciosus,  a double flowering garden hibiscus.  The Hibiscus Syriacus Speciosus is also commonly called the Rose of Sharon Speciosus. The upright shrub is highly coveted for its wealth of summer time blossoms that give it an exotic appearance. This variety Speciosus has large double flowers in a creamy white with a dramatic red centre.  
Hibiscus syriacus Speciosus produces its exotic-looking blooms during the mid to late summer months when many shrubs and plants have exhausted their flower production. Flowers measure up to seven centimeters in diameter and features five distinct petals that form a cup around the blossom’s red stamen. The staminal column of the flower is exceptionally showy and stands out in stark contrast to the petals. The non-stop flower display attracts butterflies and bees to the garden. It is not uncommon for even young and very small bushes to produce flowers. The Rose of Sharon grows well in average soil and once established requires very little care. It can be trained to grow as a small tree or espalier. The shrub prefers a planting location with well-draining soil. Once the shrub’s root system grows, it can withstand periods of drought. It also tolerates summer heat and humidity.  Many gardeners prune back two or three of the shrub’s buds in the late winter months or early spring to encourage larger flowers the following summer.  If the shrub is left unpruned, it will continue to produce numerous blossoms but they will often be smaller in diameter. 
The Hibiscus syriacus Speciosus grows to a height of up to 3.5 meters and a width of around 3 meters. It prefers a planting location in full sunlight but will tolerate partial shade. Plant the shrub as a single specimen or as part of a hedge. When planting as a hedge plant, space each of the plants 3 meters apart.  For best results, plant the Rose of Sharon in the spring or fall months.