Is Rose of Sharon Invasive?

Rose of Sharon is an invasive plant to the United States that was introduced from Asia. This decorative shrub has spread throughout the eastern U.S. and continues to take needed resources from native plants.

Identification

• Rose of Sharon is a tall, leafy green plant that, when fully mature, reaches a maximum height of 10 feet. White and purple-red flowers bloom from this shrub in the summer.

Geography

• This large shrub was brought to the United States as an ornamental hedge in a few states including Kentucky and Virginia. Large-scale invasive populations have spread from Texas to New York and as far west as Utah.

Removal and Control

• You can stop the further spread of these plants with proper trimming, cutting and collecting the seeds spread in the fall. For complete removal, common herbicides will eliminate Rose of Sharon.