Why Plant Red Heart Rose of Sharon?
When summer heats up, our Red Heart Rose of Sharon tree sizzles with a lavish display of big white blossoms, each kissed with a cherry-red center. Plant this small and tidy flowering tree in your foundation beds for a joyous burst of color by your front door all summer long. Or, use it by the patio around back, where its lush, summery blooms will bring their tropical vibe to you and your guests while you dine, entertain, or unwind. Hummingbirds love the flowers, too, and will make a beeline for those hot red, nectar-laden bullseyes!
Native to India and China, Rose of Sharon has been cultivated in those countries for centuries. It had spread to the Middle East by the time German plant explorer Leonhard Rauwolf encountered it in the 16th Century, in Syria. On his travels, Rauwolf described many marvels that had never been seen by Western eyes, including a funny little fruiting plant called “Eggplant” and a red-berried shrub you might know, called Coffea arabica, or “Coffee.” ‘Red Heart’ is an old favorite that received the RHS Award of Merit in 1993.
How to use Red Heart Rose of Sharon in the landscape?
Don't let the delicate look of these blossoms fool you. In spite of the fragile appearance of its ruby-throated, pure white flowers, this shrub is a real survivor. Covered with blooms from mid-summer to frost, it will attract hummingbirds and will get rave reviews from your friends and neighbors. So have a heart...plant one in your backyard!
Planting Zones
Hardiness Zone: 5-8
How To Plant Red Heart Rose of Sharon
Tree Form Hibiscus perform best in full sun and they tolerate a range of soil conditions, including well-drained to dry soils. Hibiscus does have the occasional problem with aphids on new spring growth. If the aphids become a little “overwhelming” you can consult with your local Garden Center professional or contact us for information about treatment. Some Hibiscuses have the tendency to “seed” rather easily. If you find little seedlings sprouting up, don’t be afraid to just pull them out of the ground, but be sure to get the roots too!
How To Water
They require keeping the soil moist (not too wet) after initial planting. Once established, they are more tolerant of drought conditions, reducing your hand-watering responsibilities.
How To Fertilize
Hibiscus love fertilizer and will “eat” whatever you give it! Apply Bower & Branch Elements yearly, preferably during fall. This yearly application is necessary for the first 3 or 4 years to promote healthy new growth for the following spring.
How To Prune
As our Hibiscus was trained into a tree form, you will need to prune it every couple years or so to keep it maintained. Be sure to prune only in early spring. They bloom in mid-summer, so pruning later in the year will decrease the amount of flower buds.
How Does Shipping Work?
Bower & Branch Trees, the real BIG trees, don’t fit in a box! Our big trees, sizes XL and bigger, require expert delivery and care, that means our extra-large trees are shipped on Bower & Branch trucks. We are the only ones who know how to ship our big and bigger trees and plants with tender loving care. We deliver your trees and plants directly to you. Ask Bower & Branch about planting services – we'd be happy to assist in installation.
*For Big trees and Shrubs, Size XL and bigger: Review our Seasonal Shipping Timelines and Policy here.
Your trees and plants are grown across the United States at various Bower & Branch Growers. Depending on your location, your plant orders may be shipped from various locations. Please expect orders with multiple items to be delivered over a number of days as a result. Orders made up of numerous items or selections will not arrive at your home on the same day.
Shipping Delays:
From time to time, Bower & Branch Growers may determine to delay order shipment based on various factors for plant health. Weather in your region, as well as, where your plants are grown, is always considered when shipping. Extreme weather conditions may delay some or all of your order. Bower & Branch allows our Growers to make final shipping decisions based solely to benefit your trees and plants’ health and success.
How Does Sizing Work?
The size of our trees have nothing to do with the container size like you may find elsewhere–big doesn't mean just height - it’s also vigor, age, and overall health. Other online retailers are going to tell you that a plant is a seven gallon, that means nothing to your tree or plant (or you.)
Our trees for sale online are graded on large, x-large, and even bigger sizes. This is because our trees are sized by their age—the higher the letter, the more mature the tree. The age determines the trees’ overall height, size of the trunk and the overall branch density.
All of these characteristics are what you should be looking for when choosing a tree for immediate impact and instant curb appeal. Our extra-large tree and plant sizes are sure to wow you and your neighbors!
See the size guides below.
