JENNY'S GARDEN                                                             

Hibiscus syriacus 'Helene' 
(Helene Shrub Althea, Rose of Sharon Helene)


Origin:  Introduced (United States National Arboretum)
Family:  Malvaceae
Light:  Sun-part shade
Height:  8-12'
Spacing: 6-10'
Blooms:  Ornate, pure white with bright burgundy central flare, large, single, saucer-shaped, late Summer
Foliage:  Deciduous, deep green, waxy
Soil:  Well-drained, poor, drought tolerant
Water:  Low
Uses:  Ornamental, screen, hedges,  mass, foundation, mass, specimen, xeriscaping
Propagation:  Seeds/softwood cuttings

Comments:  Hibiscus syriacus 'Helene' or Helene Shrub Althea or Rose of Sharon Helene is a hardy, deciduous shrub with a vigorous, upright growth habit. It is a very showy United States National Arboretum introduction.  In late Summer, this vase-shaped hybrid produces ornamental large, saucer-shaped glistening white blossoms with a dark burgundy central flare.  It has waxy deep green leaves.  Hibiscus syriacus 'Helene' is easily propagated from seeds or softwood cuttings in Fall or Spring.  It performs best in well-drained soil in a sunny location to part shade location.  Helene Shrub Althea is tolerant of poor soil.  It is drought tolerant, hence makes an ideal xeriscaping plant.  Hibiscus syriacus 'Helene' does not set seeds. Prune in Spring to maintain shape and size.  Mass plant Rose of Sharon 'Helene' as hedges or screen.  Plant them in groups for foundation planting or as a specimen or stand alone focal point if pruned to a small tree.  It also is excellent as border shrubs and it makes a bold statement in the dry landscape.

USDA Zones:   5-8