Species

Hibiscus syriacusRose of Sharon

34 other cultivars

shrub

Aphrodite Rose of Sharon

Hibiscus syriacus 'Aphrodite'

The Story

Plant Bio

Hibiscus syriacus, or Rose of Sharon, is an upright, vase-shaped deciduous shrub that provides a welcome show of large, tropical-looking flowers in late summer when few other shrubs are blooming.

'Aphrodite' is a superior cultivar from the U.S. National Arboretum, featuring large, single, ruffled deep pink flowers with a striking dark red eye. It is a sterile triploid, meaning it produces few to no messy seed pods.

Uses & Benefits:

'Aphrodite' provides a spectacular, tropical-looking floral display in late summer and early fall, a time when garden color often begins to fade. Its large, rich pink flowers add a bold splash of color.

Its upright, vase-shaped habit makes it an excellent choice for a deciduous hedge, screen, or as a specimen plant in a mixed border. Because it is nearly seedless, it avoids the problem of unwanted seedlings that plague other varieties.

The large, open-faced flowers are a magnet for pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, providing a valuable late-season nectar source.

SpeciesHibiscus syriacusRose of Sharon

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

120 inches

Width

96 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium

Humidity

High

Lifespan

20-30 years

Native To

China, India

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Early fall

In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sun.
Plant in well-drained soil; it is adaptable to pH.
Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball.
Set the plant in the hole so the crown is level with the soil surface.
Backfill with soil and water thoroughly.
Mulch to conserve moisture, but keep it away from the stems.

Pro Tip

Prune back by about one-third in early spring to promote vigorous growth and a greater number of larger flowers.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide full sun for best flowering.
Water deeply during periods of drought.
Prune in early spring to shape and encourage blooms.
Deadhead spent flowers if you wish, though 'Aphrodite' is mostly sterile.

Don't

Do not plant in poorly drained, wet soil.
Avoid heavy shade, which will result in sparse flowering.
Do not prune in late summer or fall.
Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to lush foliage but fewer flowers.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Late summer flowering hedge or screenVibrant specimen plant for mixed bordersLarge container planting for patios

Companion Plants

Echinacea purpurea Perovskia atriplicifolia Rudbeckia fulgida Sedum 'Autumn Joy'Panicum virgatum

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Aphrodite Rose of Sharon questions

What zones can Aphrodite Rose of Sharon grow in?

Aphrodite Rose of Sharon is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Aphrodite Rose of Sharon deer resistant?

Yes — Aphrodite Rose of Sharon is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Aphrodite Rose of Sharon bloom?

Aphrodite Rose of Sharon typically blooms in mid-summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Aphrodite Rose of Sharon need full sun?

Aphrodite Rose of Sharon does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Aphrodite Rose of Sharon drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Aphrodite Rose of Sharon handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.