Good plant, mediocre results — what went wrong with my Rose of Sharon

Rose of Sharon is clearly a great plant — I can see that from other people's results. Mine has been decent but not spectacular, and I think I know why.

I underestimated the importance of deadheading where appropriate to extend the flowering season in the early stages and paid for it. leggy and open growth habit from insufficient light also knocked the plant back at a critical point. It lives in a mixed shrub border providing year-round structure which is probably not quite right but it's the best I can do in my space. permanent woody structure providing year-round garden framework is visible but muted. winter bark and evergreen foliage interest gave me hope — there are glimpses of what it could be. Three stars for now with potential for four.