PLANT OF THE MONTH:JULY
June 30th, 2007ROSE OF SHARON
ALTHEA SYRIACUS
Many will agree July is the month the garden reaches its fullest potential, providing such a variety of color, flower forms and sizes, as well an assortment of fragrance. Althea syriacus, also known as Hardy Hibiscus or Rose of Sharon is a must have and favorite for the mid-summer garden providing many of these qualities.
This easy to care for plant can be used in a variety of ways, including as a large multi stemmed shrub functioning as a showy privacy screen, or more as small tree pruned on a standard as more of a specimen/focal point. Althea also works well on the patio garden as a container planting or included in a raised planter. Althea’s various forms lends itself well in either a formal or less formal setting.
This plant is adaptable to variety of climates from Zone 5-9 and tolerant of a variety of well drained soils. Althea will produce flowers in both sun/part shade conditions. The showy and fragrant flowers attract butterflies and hummingbirds and those wanting to add a tropical look to their garden. Bloom colors vary from purple, white, red, pink, and blue.
Pests to look out for are Aphids and Japanese Beetles. Bacterial leaf spot and fungus can also be a problem under wet conditions.
Although the flower is showy, the fruit is not, which allows for less of a mess in the garden and is a good choice for areas around patios and drives.
GROWN IN STANDARD TREE FORM 
TROPICAL LOOK OF THE BLOOM
Take a look at some of the links below for additional information:
www.ext.vt.edu/departments/envirohort/factsheets/shrubs/rsoshar.html