The Rose of Sharon, known botanically as Hibiscus syriacus, is a popular deciduous shrub prized for its late-summer blooms and adaptability in many landscapes. Gardeners often select this ornamental plant for its hardiness, but its presence can quickly raise concerns about deer damage. The reality of whether deer will browse this shrub is not a simple yes or no answer. Palatability is highly variable, depending on the local deer population density and the availability of other preferred food sources in the environment.
Is Rose of Sharon a Preferred Deer Food?
Rose of Sharon is generally not considered a delicacy for deer. Horticultural experts frequently rate it as a plant “seldom severely damaged” by browsing animals. Its mature leaves are tough, and the woody stems are less appealing than softer foliage. Furthermore, the shrub contains chemical compounds, like tannins, that give it a slightly bitter taste, acting as a natural deterrent.
This resistance does not make it deer-proof, however. Browsing pressure increases dramatically when preferred food sources become scarce, such as during drought or heavy snow cover. High local deer density can also force animals to consume almost any available vegetation. When deer are hungry, they most frequently target young, tender growth and flower buds.
Recognizing the Signs of Deer Browsing
Confirming deer damage requires inspecting the affected branches. Deer lack upper incisors, which defines their feeding pattern. When they bite, they tear or pull the vegetation, leaving a ragged or shredded end on the remaining stem. This ragged appearance is distinct from the clean, angled cut left by a rabbit or other small rodent.
The height of the damage is another strong indicator of deer activity. Browsing typically occurs on plant material found three to six feet above the ground. If damage is higher than two feet, especially a consistent horizontal line on multiple shrubs, deer are the likely culprits. Other signs of their presence include small, pellet-like droppings, well-worn trails, or scraped bark on nearby trees caused by bucks rubbing their antlers.
Strategies for Protecting Your Plants
The most successful way to safeguard your Rose of Sharon is by using a combination of protective measures.
Physical Exclusion
Physical exclusion offers the most reliable defense against browsing deer. For young or single shrubs, install wire cages or temporary netting to completely block access. For full property protection, a permanent fence should be installed with a minimum height of eight feet, as deer can easily jump anything lower.
Repellents
Repellents provide a secondary layer of protection and are categorized as taste-based or odor-based deterrents. These products, which often contain ingredients like putrefied egg solids or capsaicin, must be applied directly to the foliage before deer establish a feeding habit. Reapply repellents frequently, particularly after heavy rain or on new growth. Rotating between different product types helps prevent deer from becoming accustomed to a single scent or flavor.
Strategic Planting
Strategic planting can also discourage deer from approaching the Rose of Sharon. Placing the shrub near a high-traffic area of your yard can make deer feel uneasy about feeding. You can also try companion planting, surrounding the shrub with highly aromatic plants that deer typically avoid, such as lavender, ornamental alliums, or marigolds. This method uses the unappealing scent of the companion plants to mask the presence of the Rose of Sharon.