Hibiscus syriacus Oiseau Bleu - Rose of Sharon

The Hibiscus syriacus Blue Bird is a bush with an upright habit and is one the hardiest hibiscus varieties. The Blue Bird variety is appreciated for its abundant and extended flowering from summer to the first frost and for its decorative flowers. It is a plant that constantly forms new flowers.  From July to October, abundant large single flowers measuring 4 to 8 cm (1.6 to 3.1 in) in diameter emerge from the axils of the leaves on the current year's shoots. These solitary trumpet-shaped flowers are a bright blue with a dark red heart. They consist of a corolla with 5 lanceolate petals and a long white tube formed by 5 fused stamens in the centre. These flowers close at night.

The Rose of Sharon produces erect branches with bushy deciduous leaves measuring 6 to 10 cm (2.4 to 3.9 in) long that appear in late spring. The foliage is bright green. The well-cut leaves have 3 lobes and are serrated. The Blue Bird hibiscus, also known as Garden Althea, can reach a height of 3 m (9 ft 10 in) at maturity. It is a bush that attracts butterflies. Native to India and China, it can be found in English cottages and even in city gardens as it tolerates pruning very well.

Hibiscus can be grown both as a solitary plant and in shrub beds or hedges. As a solitary plant, it beautifies terraces and balconies in pots and containers. In groups, it pairs well with other varieties. It can be mixed into flowering hedges, whether trimmed or untrimmed. The Rose of Sharon is the emblem of South Korea.