Full Grown White Pillar Rose of Sharon – A Stunning Addition to Any Landscape

The white pillar rose of sharon is an exceptional variety of rose of sharon that stands out for its tall, narrow growth habit and striking white blooms. When full grown, this eye-catching shrub makes a beautiful focal point in gardens and landscapes In this article, we’ll explore what makes the white pillar rose of sharon so special, how to grow it successfully, and how to showcase it when fully mature.

The white pillar rose of sharon (Hibiscus syriacus ‘White Pillar’) is a deciduous shrub valued for its columnar shape and prolific flowers. It typically grows 10-16 feet tall with a spread of just 4-5 feet across, making it extremely narrow compared to a conventional rose of sharon

This unique variety was developed by Dr. Egbertus van Aart of the Netherlands. Its upright habit and pure white blooms offer new possibilities for incorporating rose of sharon into garden designs. The flowers are semi-double with a subtle fragrance. They bloom from midsummer through early fall when most other shrubs have finished flowering.

One of the white pillar’s key advantages is its vertical shape. It has a naturally columnar form requiring virtually no pruning to maintain. This makes it ideal for tight planting spaces where a focal point is desired without taking up much room. It can be used to great effect along fences next to doorways in containers, and anywhere a narrow upright accent is needed.

Growing Conditions

White pillar rose of sharon thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It tolerates drought, pollution, salt spray, and urban conditions. Like other roses of sharon, it is largely pest and disease resistant.

This shrub grows well throughout USDA hardiness zones 5-9. It may take 2-3 years after planting for it to reach its mature size and begin flowering prolifically. Be patient in the first couple seasons as it establishes its root system.

Plant in spring once the threat of frost has passed. Amend the soil with compost or organic matter to improve drainage. Water thoroughly after planting and mulch around the base. In subsequent years, water during extended dry periods.

Care and Maintenance

The white pillar rose of sharon requires minimal care to look its best. Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer formulated for shrubs. Prune only to remove dead or damaged branches.

As a deciduous shrub, it will lose its leaves in fall. The bare stems provide great winter interest, especially when light snow drapes its elegant columnar form. No special winter protection is needed in zones 5-9.

Monitor for pests like aphids, whiteflies, and mites and treat promptly if detected. Deer tend to avoid this plant. Very few diseases affect it aside from occasional leaf spots in rainy climates.

Showstopping Specimen When Full Grown

When given time to reach maturity, the white pillar rose of sharon truly steals the show in gardens. Its towering yet slender shape provides gorgeous vertical interest.

Here are some ways to highlight it when full grown:

• Plant against a wall, fence or trellis to draw the eye upwards. The columnar shape works perfectly in tight spaces.

• Use as a living screen for privacy or to mask unsightly views. The dense foliage fills in to form a narrow hedge.

• Grow in rows or clusters for a dramatic repetitious effect. Repeat the pillar shape for visual rhythm.

• Display in large containers at entryways or on patios. It brings height without taking up much room.

• Showcase as a focal point in island beds or surrounded by lower shrubs and perennials. It pops beautifully against a mixed backdrop.

• Grow alongside pathways, drives, or corners to direct foot traffic and guide the eye. Its strong vertical shape is an excellent wayfinding element.

• Alternate with contrasting pillar plants like Purple Pillar rose of sharon for an eye-catching color pattern.

Stunning Flowers to Admire

The elegantly upright white pillar rose of sharon puts its abundant flowers at eye-level where they can really be appreciated. The blooms add a wonderful vertical accent to arrangements. Cut stems can be enjoyed in bouquets for up to two weeks.

The individual flowers measure 3-4 inches across. They have five overlapping white petals with a small yellow center. The white color pairs beautifully with any garden scheme. It provides a clean, fresh look that works with modern and traditional designs.

Flowers are produced continuously from midsummer until fall frost on the previous year’s wood. Deadheading will encourage more blooms if desired. The spent flowers drop cleanly from the plant with no messy fruit.

An Easy Care Rose of Sharon with Endless Possibilities

For gardens short on space but longing for vertical interest, the white pillar rose of sharon is the perfect solution. Its towering yet narrow stature opens up all kinds of design options not possible with wider shrubs. When full grown, this eye-catching pillar of white will become a treasured focal point. With minimal care required, the white pillar rose of sharon is sure to delight for many years to come.