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Chinese Hibiscus Wikimedia Commons
Malvaceae

Chinese Hibiscus

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis

Tropical splendor.

Family
Malvaceae
Genus
Hibiscus
Native to
Tropical Asia, China
Bloom season
Spring, Summer, Fall
Type
evergreen shrub
Height
4-10 ft
Sunlight
full sun
Soil
rich, moist, well-drained
Water
moderate to high
Hardiness
9-12
Lifespan
perennial

Did you know

  • Chinese hibiscus is the national flower of Malaysia, where it is called 'bunga raya' (great flower).
  • Each bloom lasts only one day, but a healthy plant can produce hundreds of flowers per year.
  • The flowers are used to make a natural shoe polish in parts of tropical Asia, earning the nickname 'shoe flower.'
  • Hibiscus petals are used in hair care products across South Asia; the mucilage acts as a natural conditioner.
  • Over 10,000 hybrid cultivars have been registered, with the American Hibiscus Society cataloging new varieties annually.

Color meanings

0

delicate beauty

1

fame

2

glory

Uses

  • ornamental shrub
  • hair care
  • traditional medicine
  • herbal tea