Althea is sometimes called a hibiscus or Rose of Sharon. It grows in a tall, upright manner and can reach 8- to 10-feet tall and 6-feet wide. It is covered with large, colorful, tropical-like flowers through the summer. Its blooms may be white, lavender, pink, or yellow. Butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees are attracted to the blooms. When established, it is resistant to drought. It can also handle damp locations. This deciduous shrub has coarsely toothed, medium to dark green leaves that it will lose in the winter months. It prefers full sun and can handle partial shade. For healthy shrubs water until plants are established. Then simply water as needed. Feed shrubs with an all purpose fertilizer at the beginning of the spring season at the base of the shrub.
