Hibiscus syriacus Igloo - Rose of Sharon

Hibiscus syriacus ‘Igloo’ is an exceptional shrub distinguished by its large double flowers edged in blue against a white background. This rose of Sharon combines elegance and robustness: its strong, upright branches create a well-structured silhouette. Vigorous, easy to care for, and particularly floriferous, ‘Igloo’ stands out in the garden, but also in a large pot. Ideal for a medium flowering hedge or to enhance a small garden as a standalone specimen.

Belonging to the Malvaceae family, Hibiscus syriacus ‘Igloo’ is a cultivar selected in France by Hortival Diffusion in 2024 for its exceptional ornamental qualities. It is distinguished by its large double flowers, white with blue edges, its prolonged flowering period, and its ability to rebloom quickly. The species name syriacus refers to an old classification error, as the type species is native to East Asia, more precisely mainland China and Taiwan, where it grows in open areas, clearings, or dry, well-exposed slopes.

Rose of Sharon 'Igloo' has an upright, bushy habit. In the ground, at 10 years old, it reaches approximately 3 m in height with a spread of 1.5 m. In a pot, its size is reduced, around 1.5 to 2 m, depending on growing conditions. Its growth is moderate to fast, and the bush flowers on the current year's shoots. The matt dark green leaves are alternate, trilobed or ovate, 5 to 10 cm long and deciduous. The erect, grey, and smooth stems give the bush a robust silhouette. It will flower from July to September, sometimes until October, depending on the climate. The double flowers are 8 to 10 cm wide. They feature white petals edged with pale blue, a colouration accentuated by cool nights, surrounding a reddish-purple heart. Each flower lasts only one or two days, but the plant reblooms continuously as it produces virtually no seed.

This contemporary cultivar is part of an ancient tradition: Hibiscus syriacus has been cultivated in Europe since the 17th century and holds significant symbolic importance in South Korea. With this ‘Igloo’ cultivar, Hortival Diffusion offers a modern version that is very floriferous, well-structured, and suited to the constraints of today's gardens.

Rose of Sharon 'Igloo' enjoys sun and long summers, but it prefers a soil that does not dry out too much in July-August. This wonderful variety deserves to be placed as a standalone specimen in a small garden. It can also be planted in a medium-height hedge, with hibiscus 'Totus Albus' with pure white flowers and 'Azzuri', single and blue. You could also mix it with large rugosa roses and the crape myrtle 'Black Solitaire' (Black Diamond) 'Blush' with white flowers and very dark foliage.