The Rose of Sharon

Want a carefree, drought resistant, summer blooming shrub? Why not try an althea, or Rose of Sharon. The cultivar that I have is called Satin Violet. There are a number of "Satin" cultivars. This one must be the most profuse bloomer that I've ever seen. Even when it was a little tyke of only 1' tall, it was so covered in blooms that you could hardly see a leaf. It will be just as prolific this year when it comes into full bloom. Look at all the buds in this picture! This bloom is the first. Where I live, these plants can get the size of a small tree, so give it some room.