Rose of Sharon
Rosa macrophyllafam. Rosaceae
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Pl. CD03 — Rosa macrophylla
Rosa macrophyllaRosa macrophyllaRosa macrophyllaRosa macrophyllaRosa macrophyllaRosa macrophyllaRosa macrophyllaRosa macrophyllaRosa macrophyllaRosa macrophyllaRosa macrophyllaRosa macrophyllaRosa macrophyllaRosa macrophylla
IOverview
Overview
Rose of Sharon, scientifically known as Rosa macrophylla and belonging to the Rosaceae family, is a deciduous shrub native to regions such as Afghanistan, China South-Central, East Himalaya, Nepal, Pakistan, Tibet, and West Himalaya. This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 6-9 and can grow up to 4 meters tall. Rose of Sharon is both edible and medicinal; its fruit and seeds are used for consumption. Additionally, it has been traditionally utilized for various health purposes, making it a valuable plant in certain cultural practices. One distinctive feature of this shrub is its large leaves and clusters of white or pink flowers that bloom in summer, adding ornamental value to gardens.
Quick answers
What is Rose of Sharon?
Rose of Sharon, scientifically known as Rosa macrophylla and belonging to the Rosaceae family, is a deciduous shrub native to regions such as Afghanistan, China South-Central, East Himalaya, Nepal, Pakistan, Tibet, and West Himalaya.
IV·bMixology suggestions
2 drafts
Mixology suggestions
2 draftsEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Gentle Digest
digestiontincture
Historically used for digestive support.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Rosa macrophylla thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows best in hardiness zones 6-9 and can reach a height of 4 meters. Propagate through seeds or cuttings. The plant is native to regions including Afghanistan, China South-Central, East Himalaya, Nepal, Pakistan, Tibet, and West Himalaya.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
6-9
Mature size
4.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Rose of Sharon for the first time
8steps
Start with Rosa macrophylla as a simple, low-maintenance addition to your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
A Rosa macrophylla plant or seeds, a trowel, and mulch.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure soil is well-draining with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0; prepare containers at least 15 cm deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants or sow seeds directly in the garden, spacing them about 2 m apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist; avoid overwatering which can lead to root rot.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun to partial shade and water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Prune in late winter or early spring.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune after flowering to maintain shape; harvest fruits if desired, but not essential.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, and neglecting proper pruning are common issues beginners should avoid.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitSeed
Edible uses: The Rosa macrophylla fruit is edible and can be eaten fresh or used in various preparations. The seeds are also edible but are typically removed before consumption. These parts can be consumed raw or incorporated into jams, syrups, and other culinary applications.
Other uses:Hedgerow
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
7 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
7 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 7 native
Asia4 regions
native (4)AfghanistanChinaNepalPakistan
Broader regions
native:East Himalaya, West Himalaya
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Rosaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Rosaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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