Purple Pillar (Rose of Sharon)

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Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon is a striking, columnar shrub known for its vibrant purple flowers and upright growth habit. It provides a bold vertical element to landscapes, making it a great choice for adding a pop of color in garden beds, borders, or as a specimen plant.

  • Botanical name: Hibiscus syriacus
  • Bloom time: Summer
  • Deciduous
  • Grown in the USA

SUNLIGHT:
Prefers full sun

WATER:
Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry. Approximately every 1-2 weeks. Watering frequency may vary based on climate and establishment phase.

IDEAL CLIMATE:
Hardy in USDA Zones 5-9; thrives in warm to temperate climates with well-draining soil

Note: Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon may require periodic pruning to maintain its columnar shape and to remove any spent blooms.

PLANT DESCRIPTION & MATURE SIZE

The Purple Pillar Tree, scientifically known as Hibiscus syriacus, adds a dramatic vertical element to your garden with its towering growth and vibrant purple blooms. Renowned for its columnar form and striking flowers, this deciduous shrub-turned-tree offers spectacular late summer and fall color. It's an ideal choice for those looking to elevate their garden design while attracting beneficial pollinators.

GROWTH RATE & MATURE SIZE:

Moderate growth rate; 10-16 feet in height and 2-3 feet in width.

WATERING & SUNLIGHT

The Purple Pillar Tree is fairly easy to care for when it comes to sunlight and water. It enjoys full sun to partial shade and requires moderate watering, particularly during dry spells. Once established, the tree is somewhat drought-tolerant.

PLANT CARE & PLANTING INSTRUCTIONS

Pruning: Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. It helps to maintain the columnar shape and encourages more prolific blooming.

Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the early spring to give it a good start for the blooming season.

Winter Protection: This tree is hardy and usually doesn't require special winter care. However, a layer of mulch can help retain moisture and protect the roots in colder climates.

PLANTING INSTRUCTIONS:

Select a location with well-drained soil and sufficient sunlight. Dig a hole twice the width and equal to the depth of the root ball. Place the tree in the hole, making sure it is at the same depth as it was in the container. Backfill the hole with soil and water thoroughly to eliminate air pockets. Add a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture and deter weeds. Water regularly, especially during the first season, to establish a strong root system.

USDA GROW ZONE:

Zones 5-9

The Purple Pillar Tree thrives in USDA Zones 5 through 9, making it versatile for various climates. It is relatively tolerant of poor soil conditions, including clay and sandy soils, but prefers well-drained soil. This hardy tree can withstand cold winters and is generally drought-tolerant once established.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon is a relatively compact and upright cultivar, known for its columnar growth habit. Here's a general overview of its size:

Height: Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon typically reaches a mature height of around 10 to 16 feet. However, its ultimate height can vary depending on growing conditions, pruning practices, and regional factors.

Width: Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon tends to have a narrow spread compared to other Rose of Sharon varieties. Its width at maturity is usually around 3 to 4 feet, although it can vary based on factors such as genetics and environmental conditions.

Overall Form: Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon features an upright, columnar growth habit, with densely packed branches that contribute to its narrow profile. Its vertical structure makes it well-suited for use as a focal point, hedge, or vertical accent in the landscape.

It's important to consider the mature size of Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon when selecting a planting location to ensure that it has enough space to grow and thrive without overcrowding neighboring plants or structures. Additionally, proper pruning and maintenance can help manage the plant's size and shape over time, promoting a healthy and attractive appearance in the landscape.

Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon is known for its relatively fast growth rate compared to many other shrubs. Under optimal growing conditions, Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon can grow at a moderate to fast pace, typically reaching its mature height within a few years.

On average, Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon can grow approximately 1 to 2 feet in height per year. However, growth rates may vary depending on factors such as climate, soil quality, sunlight exposure, and moisture levels.

During the growing season, which typically spans from spring to fall, Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon experiences the most significant growth. It produces new shoots, foliage, and flowers, contributing to its overall height and size. Adequate sunlight, water, and nutrients are essential for promoting vigorous growth in Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon.

To encourage healthy growth and maximize the growth rate of Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon, provide it with the following:

Sunlight: Plant Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon in a location that receives full sun to partial shade, as adequate sunlight is crucial for photosynthesis and vigorous growth.

Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during periods of active growth. Regular watering is essential, particularly during hot and dry weather.

Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for flowering shrubs in spring to provide essential nutrients for growth and blooming.

Pruning: Prune Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon as needed to remove dead or damaged branches, shape the plant, and promote bushy growth. Pruning can stimulate new growth and encourage a more compact, dense form.

By providing proper care and maintenance, you can help Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon reach its full potential and enjoy its beautiful flowers and vertical growth habit in your landscape.

The best place to plant Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon is in a location that meets its sunlight, soil, and spacing requirements. Here are some key considerations for choosing the ideal planting site for Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon:

Sunlight: Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon thrives in full sun to partial shade. Plant it in a location where it will receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth and flowering. While it can tolerate some shade, too much shade may result in reduced flowering and less vigorous growth.

Soil: Choose a planting site with well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon prefers soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Amend heavy clay or sandy soil with compost or other organic matter to improve soil structure and fertility.

Spacing: Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon has an upright, columnar growth habit, so it's essential to provide enough space for it to grow and spread. Plant it at least 4 to 6 feet apart from other plants and structures to allow for its mature size and to prevent overcrowding.

Air Circulation: Ensure adequate air circulation around Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon to help prevent fungal diseases and promote overall plant health. Avoid planting it too close to walls, fences, or other structures that may restrict airflow.

Protection from Wind: While Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon is generally tolerant of windy conditions, planting it in a location sheltered from strong winds can help prevent damage to the branches and flowers, especially in regions prone to severe weather.

Accessibility: Choose a planting site that is easily accessible for maintenance tasks such as watering, pruning, and fertilizing. Consider factors such as proximity to water sources and ease of maneuvering around the plant when selecting the planting location.

Aesthetic Considerations: Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon is a beautiful flowering shrub that can serve as a focal point or specimen plant in the landscape. Plant it where it can be appreciated for its vertical growth habit and colorful flowers, such as near patios, entryways, or along property lines.

By selecting a planting site that meets these criteria, you can ensure that Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon thrives and enhances your landscape with its vibrant flowers and elegant form.

Yes, you can plant Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon in a pot or container. While Rose of Sharon is typically grown as a shrub in the landscape, it can also thrive when planted in containers under the right conditions. Here are some tips for successfully planting Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon in a pot:

Select a Suitable Container: Choose a large container with adequate drainage holes at the bottom to allow excess water to escape. The container should be large enough to accommodate the root system of the Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon and provide room for growth.

Use Well-Draining Soil: Fill the container with a high-quality potting mix that is well-draining and rich in organic matter. Avoid using heavy garden soil, as it can become compacted and impede drainage in containers.

Choose a Sunny Location: Place the container in a sunny location where Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon will receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Adequate sunlight is essential for promoting healthy growth and flowering in container-grown plants.

Water Regularly: Water Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Check the soil moisture regularly and adjust your watering frequency based on environmental conditions and the plant's needs. Container-grown plants may require more frequent watering than those planted in the ground, especially during hot weather.

Fertilize Appropriately: Feed Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for flowering shrubs. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates and timing. Fertilize container-grown plants more frequently than those planted in the ground, as nutrients can leach out of the soil more quickly in containers.

Provide Support if Needed: Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon has an upright, columnar growth habit, but it may benefit from staking or support to help it remain upright in a container. Use stakes or a trellis to support the plant and prevent it from leaning or tipping over.

Prune as Needed: Regular pruning may be necessary to maintain the desired size and shape of Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon in a container. Remove any dead, damaged, or overgrown branches, and shape the plant as desired to encourage bushy growth and abundant flowering.

By following these tips, you can successfully plant Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon in a pot or container and enjoy its beautiful flowers and upright growth habit in a compact space such as a patio, balcony, or deck.

Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon typically begins to bloom in mid to late summer, although the exact timing can vary depending on factors such as climate, weather conditions, and the age and health of the plant. In general, you can expect Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon to start blooming approximately two to three years after planting, once it has become established in the landscape.

Here are some factors that can influence the blooming time of Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon:

Age of the Plant: Young Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon plants may take longer to bloom than more established specimens. It often takes a couple of years for the plant to become well-established in its new environment and reach maturity before it begins producing flowers.

Growing Conditions: Providing optimal growing conditions, including full sun to partial shade, well-draining soil, adequate water, and proper fertilization, can encourage earlier and more abundant flowering in Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon. Ensure that the plant receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for best blooming results.

Climate and Weather: Weather conditions, such as temperature and rainfall patterns, can affect the timing and duration of flowering in Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon. Warm, sunny weather promotes blooming, while extended periods of cold or wet weather may delay flowering.

Pruning: Proper pruning practices, including pruning at the correct time and removing dead or damaged branches, can help promote flowering in Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon. Avoid heavy pruning in late summer or fall, as this can remove flower buds and decrease blooming the following season.

Once Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon begins to bloom, it typically continues to produce flowers throughout the summer and into early fall, providing a beautiful display of colorful blooms that attract pollinators and add visual interest to the landscape. With proper care and attention, Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon can be a prolific bloomer for many years to come.

In general, it's not necessary to cut back Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon in the fall. Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon typically benefits from pruning in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.

Here are some reasons why you might choose to wait until late winter or early spring to prune Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon instead of pruning in the fall:

Promotes Winter Survival: Leaving the foliage and stems intact throughout the fall and winter helps protect the plant from cold temperatures and winter weather. The foliage provides some insulation for the branches and helps the plant survive winter dormancy.

Preserves Winter Interest: Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon may retain its foliage and even develop seed pods or persistent flowers into the fall and winter months, providing visual interest in the landscape during the dormant season. Delaying pruning until late winter or early spring allows you to enjoy the plant's winter appearance before it undergoes rejuvenation pruning.

Minimizes Risk of Frost Damage: Pruning Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon in the fall can stimulate new growth, which may be more susceptible to frost damage as temperatures drop. Waiting until late winter or early spring to prune reduces the risk of frost damage to newly emerging growth.

Encourages Spring Growth: Pruning Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon in late winter or early spring stimulates new growth as temperatures warm, promoting vigorous growth and abundant flowering during the growing season. Pruning at this time allows you to shape the plant, remove dead or damaged branches, and encourage healthy, balanced growth.

While it's generally not necessary to prune Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon in the fall, you can remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches as needed throughout the year. Additionally, you can remove spent flowers to tidy up the plant and encourage continuous blooming until the first frost.

By waiting until late winter or early spring to prune Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon, you can promote winter survival, preserve winter interest, and encourage healthy growth and flowering in the coming growing season.

Caring for Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon involves several essential tasks to promote healthy growth, abundant flowering, and overall plant vigor. Here are some care guidelines for Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon:

Sunlight: Plant Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon in a location that receives full sun to partial shade. Adequate sunlight is essential for promoting healthy growth and flowering. Ensure that the plant receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for best results.

Watering: Water Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon deeply and thoroughly, especially during periods of hot and dry weather. Provide enough water to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can increase the risk of fungal diseases.

Soil: Plant Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon in well-draining soil with good fertility. Amend heavy clay or sandy soil with organic matter, such as compost, to improve soil structure and nutrient retention. Ensure that the soil pH is neutral to slightly acidic for optimal growth.

Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as shredded bark or compost, around the base of Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon. Mulch helps retain soil moisture, regulate soil temperature, suppress weeds, and improve soil health. Maintain a layer of mulch several inches thick, but avoid piling it against the stem to prevent rotting.

Pruning: Prune Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches, as well as any crossing or overcrowded stems. Pruning helps maintain the plant's shape, improve airflow, and stimulate new growth and flowering.

Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for flowering shrubs in early spring, just as new growth begins. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates and timing. Avoid overfertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowering.

Pest and Disease Control: Monitor Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon regularly for signs of pests, such as aphids, scale insects, or Japanese beetles, and treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Additionally, watch for symptoms of fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew or leaf spot, and provide proper airflow and sanitation to minimize disease risk.

Winter Protection: In regions with cold winters, consider providing winter protection for Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon, such as covering the plant with frost cloth or blankets during freezing temperatures. Mulch around the base of the plant can also help insulate the soil and protect the roots from frost damage.

By following these care guidelines, you can help ensure that Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon remains healthy, vibrant, and beautiful in your landscape for years to come.

The watering frequency for Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon depends on several factors, including weather conditions, soil type, and the plant's stage of growth. Here are some general guidelines for watering Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon:

Established Plants: Once Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon is established in the landscape (usually after the first growing season), it generally requires moderate watering. Water deeply and thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. This typically translates to watering about once a week during the growing season, but adjust based on weather conditions and soil moisture levels.

Hot and Dry Weather: During periods of hot and dry weather, Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon may require more frequent watering to maintain adequate soil moisture. Monitor the soil moisture closely and water as needed to prevent the soil from drying out completely. Providing a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant can help retain soil moisture and reduce the need for frequent watering.

Newly Planted or Transplanted Plants: Newly planted or transplanted Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon may require more frequent watering to help establish their root systems. Water newly planted specimens deeply immediately after planting, and continue to monitor soil moisture regularly during the first growing season. Gradually reduce watering frequency as the plant becomes established.

Avoid Overwatering: While Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon prefers consistently moist soil, it's essential to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot and other problems. Ensure that the soil drains well and never becomes waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent waterlogged conditions.

Winter Watering: During the dormant season in winter, reduce watering frequency for Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon, as the plant's water requirements decrease. Water sparingly during periods of extended drought or if the soil becomes excessively dry, but avoid watering to the point of saturation.

By monitoring soil moisture levels and adjusting your watering schedule based on environmental conditions and the specific needs of Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon, you can help ensure that the plant remains healthy and vibrant throughout the growing season.

Winterizing Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon is essential, especially in regions where temperatures drop below freezing during the winter months. Proper winter care helps protect the plant from cold temperatures, frost damage, and other winter-related stressors. Here are some tips for winterizing Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon:

Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as shredded bark, straw, or compost, around the base of the plant. Mulch helps insulate the soil, regulate soil temperature, and retain moisture, which is particularly beneficial during cold winter months. Apply a layer of mulch several inches thick, but avoid piling it against the stem to prevent rotting.

Watering: Ensure that Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon receives adequate moisture throughout the fall to help prepare it for winter dormancy. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid excessive watering, especially as temperatures drop, to prevent waterlogging.

Pruning: Prune Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches, as well as any crossing or overcrowded stems. Pruning helps improve air circulation, reduces the risk of disease, and promotes healthy growth in the coming season.

Protection from Frost: If frost is expected, cover Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon with frost cloth or blankets to protect it from freezing temperatures. Secure the coverings loosely around the plant to allow for airflow while providing insulation against cold weather. Remove the coverings during the day when temperatures rise above freezing.

Sheltered Location: If possible, plant Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon in a sheltered location, such as near a building or fence, to provide some protection from cold winds and frost. Avoid planting in low-lying areas where cold air may accumulate, increasing the risk of frost damage.

Winter Feeding: Consider fertilizing Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in late fall or early winter to provide nutrients for root development during dormancy. Use a fertilizer specifically formulated for flowering shrubs and follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates.

Monitor for Pests and Diseases: Keep an eye out for signs of pests or diseases during the winter months, especially if Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon has experienced issues in the past. Treat any problems promptly to prevent them from worsening and affecting plant health.

By following these winterizing tips, you can help protect Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon from the harsh effects of winter and ensure its health and vitality for the coming growing season.

Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon is a unique cultivar known for its upright, columnar growth habit. When planting Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon, it's essential to consider its vertical growth and spacing requirements to ensure proper development and visual appeal.

Here are some guidelines for spacing Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon plants:

Spacing Between Plants: Space Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon plants approximately 3 to 4 feet apart. This spacing allows each plant to develop its vertical growth habit without overcrowding neighboring plants. Providing adequate spacing also ensures good airflow and light penetration, which are essential for plant health and vigor.

Consider Mature Size: While Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon is known for its narrow, upright form, it can still reach a mature height of 10 to 16 feet with a spread of 2 to 3 feet (about 0.6 to 0.9 meters). When spacing plants, consider their ultimate size and allow enough room for each plant to reach its full height and width without competing for space.

Vertical Growth: Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon's vertical growth habit makes it well-suited for planting as a hedge, screen, or focal point in the landscape. Planting specimens at the recommended spacing allows them to grow upward while maintaining a uniform appearance and creating a striking vertical element in the garden.

Soil and Site Conditions: Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. Planting in a location with adequate sunlight and soil moisture promotes healthy growth and flowering. Ensure that the planting site provides suitable growing conditions for Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon to thrive.

By spacing Purple Pillar Rose of Sharon plants approximately 3 to 4 feet apart, you can create a visually appealing landscape design while allowing each plant to reach its full potential height and width. Proper spacing also facilitates maintenance tasks such as pruning and allows for good airflow and light penetration, promoting overall plant health and vigor.

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