The Reliable Rose of Sharon

 

The Rose of Sharon is like a reliable and steady friend blooming throughout most of the summer and into the fall.  Although the flowers only last a day, they are a constant source of color and beauty.  These medium sized shrubs do well in containers and bloom when the garden is used the most - mid-summer.  This makes them a great choice for the rooftop. 

 

I started using the blossoms as a point of focus during my morning Tai Chi exercise and noticed that bees get drunk on the pollen and fall down inside.  What a way to start the day, drunk on flower nectar.