Summer Ruffle™ Rose of Sharon

Summer Ruffle™ is the variegated Hibiscus syriacus selection ‘Aarticus’ (PP29104), with blue-green leaves edged in creamy white and dark-pink-to-lavender double flowers in summer. This compact woody shrub is listed at about three to four feet tall and wide for USDA Zones 5–8, making it useful in smaller gardens and patio containers. ### Garden display The [cultivar profile](https://www.soonerplantfarm.com/plant/althea-summer-ruffle) confirms the identity, colors, mature range, and zones; the [plant patent](https://patents.google.com/patent/USPP29104P2/en) documents Aarticus and its variegated foliage. Unlike herbaceous hardy hibiscus, this is a woody rose of Sharon and does not die back to the ground in winter. ### Growing conditions The grower lists full sun and adaptable soil, with average moisture and good drainage. The cultivar’s compact size can suit smaller spaces where a larger rose of Sharon would overwhelm nearby plants. ## Maintenance Water during establishment and through dry spells. In colder regions, protect the woody stems with suitable winter siting and avoid treating it like a perennial that should be cut to the ground.