Hibiscus syriacus 'Purple Pillar'

Hibiscus 'Purple Pillar' is a narrow columnar shrub with striking lavender flowers with a red throat. This cultivar has a non-branching, narrow habit compared to the typical Hibiscus, which can grow to monstrous proportions. (We had one of those—it assumed small tree-like size and took over a corner of the garden.) 'Purple Pillar' is ideal for planting in a narrow space at the back of the border. The flowers are exceptionally eye-catching. Japanese beetles will occasionally go after foliage. Deer will occasionally browse throughout the year unless precautions are taken. Leaves do not emerge until very late spring, so don't give it up for dead if it does not leaf out when the rest of the perennial garden is bolting. (See late May photo in carousel.)