Rose-of-Sharon

The previous owners of Pine Cone Lane had an affinity for Hybiscus syriacus,  also known as Rose-of-Sharon.

There is a row of nine of them outside the bedroom end of the house and I've found three others, so far, scattered out on the property. Although they come in many colors, there are three different colors here- pink, purple, and white.

It's easy to tell they are from the hibiscus family. The ones on this property are single bloom varieties, but they come in double blooms also. 

Most Roses-of-Sharon grow in shrub form, but can be pruned into a small tree that will top out at about 10-12 feet. They prefer full sun to partial shade with moist well-drained soil.  Best of all, the Rose-of-Sharon blooms throughout the summer!

Even though you may not be a gardener, chances are you've heard the name Rose-of-Sharon. Here's why.....

• Jesus is called the Rose-of-Sharon  "I am the rose of Sharon and the lily of the valley" Song of Solomon 2:1
• Rose of Sharon is a major character in John Steinbeck's The Grapes of Wrath.
• The White Rose of Sharon is the official flower of Phi Beta Chi.
• It is the national flower of Korea
• It is referenced in a Bob Dylan song, "Caribbean Wind"

But for us here at Pine Cone Lane, the Rose-of-Sharon will be the flower of our summers.

Love ya'll,

Shelli

I'd rather have roses on my table than diamonds on my neck.

~Emma Goldman