Lil Kim Rose-of-Sharon

Hibiscus syriacus 'Lil' Kim'

Family: Rose Of Sharon

Type: Shrub

Other Common Name: Shrub Althea

Lil Kim Rose-of-Sharon is a unique and compact shrub, known for its small size and large, showy flowers. This dwarf variety blooms with white flowers featuring a deep red throat.

It’s an excellent choice for gardeners with limited space or those seeking a low-maintenance flowering shrub. Despite its small stature, it makes a significant impact in the garden.

Thriving in full sun, Lil Kim Rose-of-Sharon is adaptable to a range of soil types. It’s hardy in zones 5-9, making it a resilient choice for many climates.

Needs & Preferences

Hardiness Zone: 4b-5a

Deer Resistant: Yes

Pet Friendly: Yes

Moisture Preference: Average to moist

Sun Needs: Full sun to partial shade

Growth

Growth Rate: Medium

Average Height (feet): 4

Average Spread (feet): 4

Average Life Span (years): 40

Form: Upright spreading

Ornamental

Flower Color: Pink

Flower Shape: Trumpet

Bloom Season: From mid summer to early fall

Foliage Color: Green

Foliage Shape: Lobed

Bark Color: Gray

Bark Texture: Smooth

Landscaping Your Yard With Lil Kim Rose-of-Sharon

Incorporating Lil Kim Rose-of-Sharon adds elegance and charm to any garden. Its compact size allows for versatile placement in landscape designs.

It’s perfect for creating a focal point in small gardens or adding interest to mixed borders. Its vibrant blooms attract pollinators, enhancing the garden’s biodiversity.

Drought-tolerant once established, Lil Kim Rose-of-Sharon is a great low-maintenance option. Its adaptability to urban environments makes it a popular choice for city gardens.

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Suitable Garden Styles

Cottage Garden

In a cottage garden, Lil Kim Rose-of-Sharon fits perfectly. Its charming flowers add a touch of whimsy and romance to the informal, densely planted style of these gardens.

Urban Courtyard Garden

For urban courtyard gardens, this shrub is ideal due to its compact size. It adds beauty without overwhelming the limited space, making it perfect for city living.

Formal Garden

In a formal garden, Lil Kim Rose-of-Sharon brings structured beauty. Its symmetrical growth and elegant flowers can create a focal point or complement a formal layout.

Lil Kim Rose-of-Sharon Landscaping Ideas

Plant it as a standalone specimen in small yards. It becomes a stunning centerpiece without taking up too much space.

Use it in container gardening on patios or balconies. Its dwarf nature makes it well-suited for growing in pots, adding a touch of nature to urban outdoor areas.

Incorporate it into foundation plantings. Its compact growth habit and striking blooms enhance the curb appeal of any home.

Create your own garden design!

Select our pre-made garden layouts to create a landscape that’s uniquely yours. Simple, smart, and customizable!

Seasonal Interest

Spring

In spring, Lil Kim Rose-of-Sharon begins to show new growth. The foliage emerges, setting the stage for the summer blooms.

Summer

During summer, it comes into full bloom. The white flowers with red centers make it a standout in the garden, attracting bees and hummingbirds.

Fall

In the fall, the blooms may persist into early autumn. The plant begins to prepare for dormancy, with leaves changing color and falling off.

Winter

In winter, Lil Kim Rose-of-Sharon is dormant. The bare branches offer a stark, sculptural beauty and can be pruned to maintain shape.

Planting Tips

Where to Plant

Choose a location for Lil Kim Rose-of-Sharon that receives full sun to partial shade. This shrub thrives in areas that get at least six hours of sunlight daily.

Light

Full sun is ideal for this plant, promoting the best bloom production. It can tolerate partial shade, but flowering may be less prolific in less sunlight.

Soil

Lil Kim Rose-of-Sharon is adaptable to a variety of soil types, but it prefers well-draining soil. Soil that is too wet can lead to root rot.

Spacing

Space these shrubs about 3 to 4 feet apart. This spacing allows for their growth and spread while ensuring good air circulation to prevent disease.

When to Plant

Plant in early spring or fall. Cooler temperatures during these times help the plant establish itself without the stress of extreme heat or cold.

How to Plant

Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and the same depth. Place the shrub in the hole, fill with soil, and water thoroughly to settle the roots.

Plant Care Tips

Watering

Water regularly, especially during the first growing season to establish a deep, extensive root system. Once established, Lil Kim Rose-of-Sharon is quite drought-tolerant.

Fertilizing

Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. This will support healthy growth and abundant flowering throughout the season.

Pruning

Prune in late winter or early spring. Since it blooms on new wood, pruning won’t affect the flowering and will help maintain a desirable shape.

By Season

 

Spring Care

Remove any dead or damaged branches in early spring. Start regular watering and apply fertilizer to encourage new growth.

Summer Care

Continue regular watering, especially in periods of drought. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers.

Fall Care

Reduce watering as the plant prepares for dormancy. This is a good time to clean up any fallen leaves or debris around the plant.

Winter Care

No special winter care is needed. If desired, prune the plant to shape it or remove any dead wood.

FAQ

How Big Does Lil Kim Rose-of-Sharon Get?

Lil Kim Rose-of-Sharon typically grows to about 3-4 feet tall and wide, making it much more compact than traditional Rose-of-Sharon varieties.

Is Lil Kim Rose-of-Sharon Invasive?

Unlike some other Rose-of-Sharon varieties, Lil Kim is not known to be invasive. Its compact size and lower seed production reduce the risk of unwanted spread.

Can It Be Grown in a Container?

Yes, Lil Kim Rose-of-Sharon can be successfully grown in a container. Ensure the pot is large enough and has good drainage, and be mindful of watering needs.

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