Hibiscus syriacus ‘Oiseau Bleu’ – Exotic Summer Colour
Hibiscus syriacus ‘Oiseau Bleu’, also known as the Blue Bird Hibiscus, is a hardy deciduous shrub admired for its exotic-looking flowers and long flowering season. From mid to late summer, this striking variety produces an abundance of large, trumpet-shaped blooms in rich violet-blue, each with a contrasting deep red centre. These spectacular flowers bring a touch of the tropics to the garden, just when many other plants are beginning to fade.
Its lush green foliage creates a dense, upright form, making it ideal for hedging, screens, or as a standalone feature. Growing to around 2–3 metres in height and 1.5–2 metres in spread, ‘Oiseau Bleu’ is perfectly suited to both large and smaller gardens where reliable, late-season colour is desired.
Tough, low-maintenance, and highly adaptable, Hibiscus syriacus thrives in most well-drained soils and enjoys a sunny, sheltered position. It is also very attractive to pollinators, making it a valuable addition to wildlife-friendly gardens.
Why Choose Hibiscus syriacus ‘Oiseau Bleu’?
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Exotic Flowers – Striking violet-blue blooms with deep red centres.
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Long Season of Interest – Flowers continuously from late summer into early autumn.
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Hardy & Reliable – Thrives in the UK climate despite its exotic appearance.
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Pollinator Friendly – A magnet for bees and butterflies.
Planting & Care Guide
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Position: Full sun in a sheltered spot.
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Soil: Well-drained, moderately fertile soil.
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Watering: Keep moist during establishment; drought-tolerant once mature.
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Feeding: Apply balanced fertiliser in spring to promote flowering.
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Pruning: Lightly prune in late winter or early spring to shape and remove dead wood.
Design & Planting Ideas
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Plant as a specimen shrub for a bold splash of colour.
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Use in mixed borders for late-summer interest.
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Combine with ornamental grasses and lavender for a Mediterranean feel.
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Perfect for wildlife gardens, drawing in bees and butterflies.
✨ Hibiscus syriacus ‘Oiseau Bleu’ is the perfect shrub to extend the season of colour in your garden, bringing exotic flair and pollinator-friendly beauty through the warmest months of the year.
Guide to Planting Field-Grown Root Balled Plants
Pros:
- Established Roots: Typically stronger, established roots ensure better initial growth.
- Immediate Impact: Larger plants provide instant structure and aesthetics.
Cons:
- Heavy and Bulky: Can be difficult to transport and plant due to size and weight.
- Seasonal Availability: Generally available only in the dormant season (autumn to early spring).
Preparation for Planting:
- Unwrap Carefully: Remove any packaging material, but leave the burlap or wire basket on.
- Keep plants moist: Plants should be kept moist until the time of planting.
Planting Process:
- Dig a Hole: Make a hole twice the width of the root ball and the same depth.
- Position Plant: Place the root ball in the hole, ensuring the top is level with the ground surface.
- Do Not Remove Root Sack: Leave the burlap or wire basket around the root ball. It is bio degradable and will rot away naturally.
- Backfill: Fill the hole with soil, firming gently around the roots to eliminate air pockets.
- Water: Water deeply after planting to settle the soil and avoid wilting.
Possibility of Losses:
- Initial Shock: Some plants may suffer transplant shock, leading to potential losses.
- Mitigation: Proper care and consistent watering during the establishment phase can minimise this risk.
Main Causes of Failure:
- Improper Planting Depth: Planting too deep or too shallow can stress the roots.
- Poor Soil Conditions: Compacted or poorly drained soil can hinder root growth.
- Insufficient Watering: Both under-watering and over-watering can lead to plant stress and failure. Strong wind can dry leafy pants.
- Pest and Disease: Lack of protection and monitoring can result in damage from pests and diseases.
Tips for Success:
- Stake Larger Plants: Support with stakes to prevent wind damage.
- Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate temperature.
- Regular Monitoring: Check for signs of stress, pests, and disease, and address them promptly.
By following these guidelines and providing consistent aftercare, you can successfully plant and establish field-grown root balled plants in your garden.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.