How to prune hibiscus syriacus 'blue bird'

Early spring, just as buds begin to swell (March to early April). Cut all main stems back to two or three buds from the previous season's base. This is a fairly hard prune — leave 5–10 cm stubs on a well-established framework. Remove any dead wood entirely. New shoots will emerge quickly and carry flowers by late summer.

Annually. Yes, Rose of Sharon 'Blue Bird' benefits from annual pruning in early spring to encourage large flowers on vigorous new growth. Flowers are produced on the current season's shoots, so hard pruning before growth starts maximises bloom size and keeps the shrub to a manageable size. Without pruning it becomes leggy.

Cut all main stems back to two or three buds from the previous season's base. This is a fairly hard prune — leave 5–10 cm stubs on a well-established framework. Remove any dead wood entirely. New shoots will emerge quickly and carry flowers by late summer.