Hibiscus syriacus (Hibiscus the Syrian) is a deciduous ornamental shrub, native to Asia, around Syria. It has different common names around the world such as Syrian ketmia or rose mallow (in United Kingdom), rose of Sharon (especially in North America), and St Joseph's rod (in Italy).
H. syriacus has large dark green leaves about 8 cm.
Its flowers are large with five petals, color varies from white - purple - blue red depending on variety and remain ‘opened’ about 48 hours.
Rose mallow’s main blossom period is Summer.
Insects are the main pollinators of H. syriacus.
It prefers fertile, well-drained, humus-rich soils, protected and full of sunshine, although it may yield a large variety of soils.
It can tolerate temperatures up to -20 °.
Pruning can be done in thespring.