Hibiscus syriacus 'Marina' - hibiscus de gradina

Hibiscus syriacus 'Marina' , also known as 'Rose of Sharon Marina' or 'Blue Hibiscus Marina', is a cultivar of the species Hibiscus syriacus in the Malvaceae family. This deciduous shrub, native to East Asia (China, Japan, Korea), is prized for its large, exquisite bluish-purple flowers and its long bloom period from summer to fall. 'Marina' stands out for its distinctive floral hue and compact stature, making it an excellent choice for borders, hedges, containers or as a solitary plant in gardens.

Appearance of leaves, flowers and fruits

• Leaves : The leaves are deciduous, dark green , ovate or trilobed, with serrated edges, 5-10 cm long. They appear late, in May , and have a palmate-veined texture. In autumn, the leaves may turn yellowish before falling, but do not offer a significant color show.
• Flowers : The flowers are large, 8-10 cm in diameter, trumpet-shaped, with 5 petals. The color is a delicate bluish-purple , sometimes with a lilac tint, and a subtle red-purple center that adds contrast. They bloom from July to September , sometimes into October, each flower lasting one day, but being constantly replaced by new buds. The flowers have a faint fragrance and attract pollinators such as bees, butterflies and hummingbirds.
• Fruits : Produces dehiscent, green or brown, 1-2 cm capsules that persist into winter. These are non-ornamental and contain seeds that can germinate easily, giving the plant a slightly invasive character in some regions.

Growth characteristics

• Height and width : It grows as a compact shrub, reaching 1.5-2.5 meters tall and 1-1.5 meters wide in 10-20 years. It has a vase-shaped habit, with thin branches that arch slightly, ideal for smaller spaces.
• Vigor : Growth is moderate, with dense branching if pruned regularly. Flowers appear on new wood, making annual pruning beneficial.
• Type : It is a deciduous, hardy shrub with a branching structure that can be shaped into various shapes, including hedges, trees, or standard forms.

Growing conditions

• Exposure : Prefers full sun for abundant flowering, but tolerates partial shade , with a reduction in the number of flowers. A sunny position, protected from strong winds, intensifies the bluish-purple hue of the flowers.
• Soil : Grows well in fertile, well-drained , consistently moist, slightly acidic to alkaline (pH 5.5-8) soils. Tolerates poor soils, but prefers a mix of compost or well-rotted manure. For pots, soil-based compost is recommended.
• Watering : Requires regular watering, especially in the first year, to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Once established, tolerates moderate drought.
• Pollination : Simple flowers are very attractive to pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, contributing to the biodiversity of the garden.

Care and resistance

• Hardiness : It is cold-hardy, withstanding temperatures down to -15°C to -20°C (zones 5-9), making it suitable for temperate climates, including Romania. Young leaves may be affected by late frosts, and in severe winters, mulching the base is recommended.
• Fertilization : Apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g. 10-10-10) in spring and summer to encourage flowering. Benefit from regular fertilization during the growing season.
• Pruning : Prune in February-March to encourage flowering on new wood, keeping 2-3 buds on the previous year's branches. Pruning helps maintain a compact, dense shape. Remove dead or damaged branches in spring.
• Pests and Diseases : May be affected by aphids, spider mites, whiteflies, or Japanese beetles. Diseases include leaf spots, rust, or mildew, especially in humid conditions. Good ventilation and avoiding wetting the leaves will reduce the risks.
• Propagation : Propagate by branch cuttings taken in summer, layering or seeds , although seeds can produce variable plants. Cuttings are the most reliable method for preserving cultivar characteristics.
• Toxicity : It is not toxic to humans and animals, and the flowers are edible, being used in some cultures for teas or decoration.

Use

Hibiscus syriacus 'Marina' is ideal for mixed borders , hedges , privacy screens or as a solitary plant in gardens. Its bluish-purple flowers add an elegant touch, making it perfect for cottage gardens, modern landscapes or urban gardens due to its pollution tolerance. It can be grown in containers on patios, making it suitable for small yards due to its compact stature. It is excellent for attracting pollinators and creating a refined focal point in the garden.

Origin

Hibiscus syriacus is native to East Asia (China, India, Korea), but has been cultivated in Europe since the 16th century. The cultivar 'Marina' was selected for its unique bluish-purple flowers and compact stature, making it a relatively recent creation in ornamental horticulture. Hibiscus syriacus is the national symbol of South Korea, known as "Mugunghwa" (eternal flower), and is mentioned in the national anthem.

Height with pot included: approx. 30 cm