These mallows blossom on new wood, so trimming back in late winter will bring more branching and more flowers. Cut the branches flush back to a juncture. Remember, any cut will force growth at that point. Tip pruning is not advisable. It makes for weak arms that will not support the load of flowers on the ends.

They are precocious bloomers, putting on blossoms as very young shrubs. Their wants are few, just a site in sun or part shade, with some decent garden soil. They are not too fussy about water, either. Just give them a drink if the summer rains don’t come along.

They blossom in the summer, at a time when there isn’t much going on above the annual and perennial site line. You can choose flowers in single petal style with flat or ruffled edges, or flowers fully rouched and ruffled into scrunchy puffs.

Hibiscus 'Bluebird'

Now there’s a new kid on the block. She promises to have even more garden employment. This little charmer, called Hibiscus syriacus Lil’ Kim™ is newly introduced this year. Her future is bound for a pot. Her short stature and wide spread, 3-5 feet tall and 2-4 ft wide make her perfectly happy in a container. She can also be slipped in amongst the perennials or placed out front of the shrub border.

One of the advantages in using althea/hibiscus in the garden is its fast growth and eagerness to bloom. Lil’ Kim is even more gifted. In this her first year planted in a pot in my garden, she took off blossoming at a very non-statuesque foot tall and wide.

Hibiscus 'Lil Kim'

Next spring, when the pansies and bulbs are going bye, Lil’ Kim will be waking up. Then you can pull the skirt of pansies and add your summer annuals. I’m fond of using ornamental sweet potato vines. ‘Blackie’ looks great under Lil’ Kim, but needs trimming or he will spill out and take over their world.

Welcome althea/hibiscus/Rose of Sharon/mallow (Hibiscus syriacus) into your garden. They are most welcome in mine.