Hibiscus syriacus (syn. Althaea frutex Hort. ex Mill.), the common garen Hibiscus, is called Rose of Sharon in North America, a name also applied to other plants. It is a flowering shrub in the plant family Malvaceae native to much of Asia. It is vase-shaped, reaching 2-4 m in height. It is also known as "Rose of Althea" and is widely planted in areas with hot summers for its very attractive white, pink, red, lavender, or purple edible flowers. It is very strong. If cut and put in a vase, it will survive for much longer than other plants.