The Best Companion Plants for Rose of Sharon

Rose of Sharon is a hardy deciduous shrub that produces large, showy blooms in late summer when most other shrubs have finished flowering. Its only downside is that it’s rather plain for much of the growing season only leafing out in June if spring temperatures are cool. One solution is to choose companion plants that complement Rose of Sharon’s attributes. Here are some excellent companion plant ideas for Rose of Sharon.

Ideal Companion Plants for Rose of Sharon Borders and Hedges

Planting Rose of Sharon in a mixed hedge or border along with evergreen shrubs and those that bloom at different times ensures gorgeous color from spring through fall. For example, combining Rose of Sharon with various rose cultivars provides season-long color. Other suggested pairings include

  • Blooming shrubs like lilac forsythia viburnum, hydrangea, and bluebeard. Choose a mix of spring, summer, and fall bloomers.

  • Evergreen shrubs such as wintergreen boxwood, helleri holly, and little giant arborvitae. These provide greenery as a backdrop for Rose of Sharon.

Complementary Perennials for Rose of Sharon Companion Planting

Rose of Sharon looks stunning planted behind perennials of different heights, forms, and colors. It serves as a late summer focal point. Nearly any perennial complements Rose of Sharon, but some excellent choices include:

  • Coneflower, garden phlox, oriental lilies, and blue globe thistle – early bloomers that precede Rose of Sharon.

  • Asters, mums, coreopsis, and ornamental grasses that extend the floral display into fall.

  • Lavender, catmint, sage, and bee balm for their silvery foliage and concentrated flowers.

Groundcovers for Planting Around Rose of Sharon

Groundcovers solve the problem of Rose of Sharon’s bare lower stems. Short plants like creeping thyme, basket of gold, verbena, and hosta spread quickly to fill in spaces. Consider:

  • Fast-growing, low-maintenance groundcovers that don’t compete for nutrients and water.

  • Varieties with interesting foliage like variegated hosta that brighten shady areas under Rose of Sharon.

  • Those with spreading habits like wooly thyme and snow-in-summer that spread quickly to cover bare ground.

Annuals as Companion Plants for Rose of Sharon Containers

Although best grown alone in containers, a few shallow-rooted annuals can complement Rose of Sharon in pots. Consider:

  • Trailing plants like sweet potato vine, calibrachoa, verbena, and petunias that soften container edges.

  • Upright, airy annuals like snapdragons, cosmos, cleome, and baby’s breath that don’t compete for root space.

  • Annuals in harmonious colors like pink or white alyssum and petunias that highlight Rose of Sharon’s dramatic blooms.

Companion Plant Ideas to Avoid Around Rose of Sharon

When selecting companion plants, avoid those with incompatible growing preferences that won’t thrive alongside Rose of Sharon:

  • Drought-tolerant succulents, sedums, yuccas – these require excellent drainage and hot, dry conditions unlike Rose of Sharon.

  • Water-loving marsh plants such as swamp milkweed, turtlehead, and pickerel weed that demand constant moisture.

  • Heavy feeders that deplete soil nutrients, like astilbe, foxglove, and delphinium.

  • Aggressive spreaders like mint, lemon balm, and goldenrod that spread quickly and outcompete Rose of Sharon.

Best All-Around Companion Plants for Rose of Sharon

The best companion plants are those with similar growth habits and care needs as Rose of Sharon. Ideal choices include:

  • Shrubs and perennials that thrive in full sun and moist, well-draining soil.

  • Light feeders that won’t quickly deplete nutrients. Annual additions of compost suit most companion plants.

  • Non-aggressive plants whose size and vigor won’t overwhelm Rose of Sharon.

  • Varieties with different bloom periods to extend seasonal interest around Rose of Sharon.

By selecting companion plants carefully, you can design a spectacular border or mixed hedge that combines beautifully with Rose of Sharon. Use plants with contrasting forms, foliage, and flowers to complement Rose of Sharon’s strong shapes and late summer color. With thoughtful companion planting, you can enjoy non-stop beauty around this classic flowering shrub.

companion plants for rose of sharon

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FAQ

What pairs well with the rose of Sharon?

Hydrangea: Hydrangeas and Rose of Sharon have similar growth habits and flower at the same time, making them good companion plants for a mixed border or hedge. Phlox: Phlox (Phlox paniculata) bloom at a similar time, with their vibrant colors complementing the Rose of Sharon’s blooms.

What are the cons of rose of Sharon?

Rose of Sharon shrubs can be sensitive to drought or waterlogged soil. Yellowing or browning leaves, dropping buds, wilting plants, or stunted growth problems with althea oftentimes are caused by improper drainage in the planting site.

Where is the best place to put a rose of Sharon?

For spectacular flowers and easy care, plant your Rose of Sharon in a spot with good drainage and full sun to partial shade. In northern climates, six or more hours of direct daily sun promotes maximum blooms.

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