Looking for a small flowering tree?
The Althea, Rose of Sharon, Hibiscus syriacus, is great option if you are looking for a small flowering tree. Sometimes referred to as a shrub, the Althea can be pruned up to be a low branching tree. If you prefer patio style, it can be trained to be a ball on stem patio tree as well. The Althea have been an old standby for years and are often times found in older existing landscapes here in Austin, Texas.
Known by several names, Hibiscus syriacus, Althea, Rose of Sharon, and Rose Mallow.
Althea Rose of Sharon
Have a favorite color? Odds are it is available in the Rose of Sharon. There are a range of colors and combinations of blooms. White, purple, red, pink, lavender. Some varieties even have double blooms.
Several of the varieties have a contrasting color at the center of the bloom which enhances the color and interest in my opinion.
The hardest part is deciding which color bloom you want!
Growth Habit
Althea like a well drained soil and can take the full sun here in Austin, Texas. If you have a spot with shade in the mornings that would be an acceptable place to plant them as well as long as it gets a half day of the afternoon sun.The full size varieties can grow 6 – 10′ in height and the dwarf varieties reach only to 4-6′. Depending on your landscape design plan, plant as a stand-alone specimen or mixed in with your landscape. They are very adaptable and easily added as an accent in most any setting.
Planting Tip:
When planting your Althea Rose of Sharon, dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper. In our Central Texas soils, it’s beneficial to mix in a little compost to help with nutrient retention while ensuring the area remains well-drained. Mulching around the base (keeping it away from the trunk) will help conserve moisture during our intense July and August heatwaves.
Rose of Sharon
Pruning for Shape and Blooms:
The Rose of Sharon is a deciduous flowering tree. You can prune and shape as you see fit. Looking for a more formal manicured look? Prune it to a standard form ball on stem patio tree.
Like a more natural look? Leave it alone and it will grow naturally into a V shape.
If you prefer it to have some exposed trunk, prune it to be a low branching tree. They are very versatile depending on the look you are trying to achieve.
The Althea blooms on new wood, therefore, late winter pruning will help produce larger, more prolific flowers in the summer.
Plant Althea Rose of Sharon in your landscape and garden plan for an added interest and plethora of blooms.
In addition to the fact it has beautiful flowers, it is a favorite of the pollinators. Bees and butterflies flock to these wonderful unique blooms!
