Growing on the High Plains: Rose of Sharon

By Skip Mancini

Published September 30, 2021 at 2:32 PM CDT

Today's episode takes aim at the pop of color one might see on the usually-muted High Plains landscape: the Rose of Sharon.

As the sun settles on our region's seasonal shades of tan, yellow and green, I always delight in the splash of bright color popping forth from my prized Rose of Sharon shrub. Though it's a rose only in name, this relative of the hibiscus and hollyhock can grow quite sizeable over time. Tune in to today's installment of Growing on the High Plains to learn more about these ancient flora that bloom in reds, whites, and blues.

Growing on the High Plains

Skip Mancini

Years ago Skip Mancini left the rocky coast of Northern California to return to her roots in the heartland. Her San Francisco friends, concerned over her decision to live in a desolate flatland best known for a Hollywood tornado, were afraid she would wither and die on the vine. With pioneer spirit, Skip planted a garden. She began to learn about growing not only flowers and vegetables, but hearts and minds. If you agree that the prairie is a special place, we think you'll enjoy her weekly sojourns into Growing on the High Plains.

See stories by Skip Mancini