Rose of Sharon, Althea, Rose Mallow
Plantae > Tracheophyta > Magnoliopsida > Malvales > Malvaceae > Hibiscus > Hibiscus syriacus · Malvaceae (Mallow family) · Simple, Deciduous
Species
Hibiscus syriacus
Leaf Type
Simple, Deciduous
Family
Malvaceae (Mallow family)
Shape
Rhomboid to ovate, distinctive 3-lobed (palmately lobed) foliage
Size
Approximately 3 to 4 inches in length and 2 to 3 inches in width, typical for mature summer leaves of this species.
Margin
Coarsely serrate to dentate-crenate along the margins of the lobes.
Arrangement
Alternate along the stems with distinct petioles.
Rarity
Very Common
Color & Pattern
Bright to medium green on the upper surface, slightly paler beneath, uniform coloration with no prominent variegation present on this leaf.
Venation Pattern
Palmate-pinnate venation; 3 main primary veins radiate near the base into the lobes with clear net-like (reticulate) secondary veining.
Texture & Surface
Smooth (glabrous) to slightly rough, matte finish, soft and flexible foliage texture.
Description
Hibiscus syriacus, commonly known as Rose of Sharon, is an upright, deciduous shrub or small multi-stemmed tree growing up to 8-12 feet tall. It is renowned for its attractive 3-lobed leaves and late-summer, showy hollyhock-like flowers that come in shades of pink, purple, white, and blue.
Key Features
Distinctive three-lobed palmately veined leaves with coarsely toothed margins, alternate arrangement, and showy summer flowers with prominent central staminal columns.
Habitat
Thrives in full sun to partial shade; prefers moist, well-drained, fertile soil, but highly adaptable to urban environments, drought, and heat.
Geographic Range
Native to East Asia (China, Korea), widely cultivated and naturalized across North America, Europe, and temperate regions globally.
Condition Notes
The leaf appears healthy and vibrant with overall Good to Excellent condition, showing minimal surface insect nibbling near the petiole base.
Interesting Facts
It is the national flower of South Korea, where it is known as Mugunghwa ('immortal flower'). Despite its common name 'Rose of Sharon', it is not a rose but a member of the mallow family.
Medicinal & Uses
Widely planted as an ornamental shrub, hedge, or specimen plant. Flowers and young foliage are traditionally used in herbal teas and skin remedies in parts of Asia.
Ecological Role
Provides rich nectar for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds during the late summer when many other shrubs have finished blooming.
Similar Species
Hibiscus trionum (Flower-of-an-hour), Acer ginnala (Amur Maple - though maples have opposite leaf arrangement), and various species of Malvaceae.
Foraging Tips
Look for upright upright multi-stemmed shrubs in residential landscapes or old fields, bearing alternate 3-lobed leaves and large funnel-shaped flowers in late summer.
Toxicity Warning
Generally Non-toxic to humans. Dogs and livestock may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if consumed in large quantities, but it is considered non-hazardous.