Hibiscus syriacus Pink Chiffon - Rose of Sharon

The Hibiscus syriacus 'Pink Chiffon', also known as Tree Mallow or Althaea, disappears under an abundant and long summer flowering of large semi-double and crumpled corollas, that are soft pink, discreetly emphasised with small red markings at the heart. Each flower only lives for one day, but another immediately takes its place, and this charming carousel lasts all summer. This variety, like its 'Chiffon' series sisters, shows modest growth and has an upright and very bushy habit. The bush is adorned with beautiful lobed foliage in a deep green colour and is ideal for a flowering hedge, flower bed, or large container near the house. A truly easy plant to grow in the sun, in well-drained ordinary soil, slightly chalky, in all climates.

The Hibiscus syriacus, sometimes called Garden Hibiscus, is a hardy deciduous shrub in our climates, but evergreen in warm climates, belonging to the mallow family, just like hollyhocks and marshmallows. It is native to temperate regions of Asia and has given rise to many cultivars including the 'Chiffon' series, whose flowers seem to be made of crepe and have a very double centre. The 'Pink Chiffon' variety is a bright, pale pink version of this charming variety of hibiscus. This althea plant is characterised by its moderate growth and abundant flowering from July to September. It grows into a shrub that can reach 1.5 to 5 metres (4 ft 11 to 16 ft 5 in) in height with a spread of about 1 metre (3 ft 4 in). An erect but branched structure supports its upright habit. The plant produces large corollas, measuring 10cm (3.9 in) in width, which bloom from a dark green foliage slightly glossy when cut. The leaves are alternate and lobed, with an ovate to lanceolate shape, while their edges are serrated and billowy.

The 'Pink Chiffon' Althaea thrives in bright and warm locations and can tolerate light shade in warmer climates. This hibiscus plant requires minimal maintenance and takes its time to establish itself. It is best to plant it in a sheltered location, away from strong winds, in soil that remains slightly moist until the end of summer. This tender and poetic creation can be used as a medium-sized hedge, either on its own or in combination with other 'Chiffon' hibiscus in different colours, buddleias, abelias, or shrubby lavateras. It can also be planted at the back of a perennial flower bed composed of asters, phlox, daylilies, gauras, and other similar flowers. Since it's a small plant, it can be grown in a large container filled with fertile soil to enjoy its flowering on the terrace or balcony.