Hibiscus syriacus

Althaea, Shrub Althaea, Rose of Sharon, Syrian Ketmia
Varieties

Message of the Flower

Power in the Higher Vital

The Mother’s Comment

Power that wants to be at the service of the Divine.

Colour

Lavender to blue, magenta, white

Message of the Flower

Will One with the Divine Will

The Mother’s Comment

The condition that triumphs over all obstacles.

Colour

White

Family

Malvaceae

Cultivars

Blue Bird', 'Diana', 'Lady Stanley'

Person who named the flower

Carl Linnaeus

Flower Size

2-4 inches

Flower Texture

Smooth, sometimes slightly ruffled

Number of Petals

5, more in double varieties

Floral Symmetry

Radial

Fragrance of Flower

Some varieties are fragrant, generally mild

Leaf Texture

Smooth, slightly glossy

Leaf Arrangement

Alternate

Leaf Color

Green, often with a slight bluish tinge

Structural Variation (Shrub or Tree)

Shrub, can be trained as a small tree

Life Cycle

Perennial

Blooming Period

Summer to early fall

Climate

Temperate to subtropical

Water Requirements

Moderate, drought-tolerant once established

Soil Type

Adaptable, prefers well-drained, fertile soil

Temperature Ranges

Hardy to USDA zones 5 through 8

Sun or Shade

Full sun to partial shade

Susceptibility to Insects and Diseases

Aphids, rust, leaf spot

Pollinators

Bees, butterflies

Habitat

Native to East Asia, cultivated worldwide

Role in the Ecosystem

Nectar source for pollinators, ornamental use

Quotations

Not specifically quoted

Ornamental

Valued in landscaping for decorative flowers

Uses in Other Aspects of Life

Ornamental, cultural symbolism

Endangered Status

Not endangered