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Hibiscus Wikimedia Commons
Malvaceae

Hibiscus

Hibiscus

Delicate beauty, hospitality, femininity.

Family
Malvaceae
Genus
Hibiscus
Native to
Tropics and subtropics worldwide
Bloom season
Summer, Fall
Type
shrub or small tree
Height
1–4.5 m
Sunlight
Full sun
Soil
Well-drained, rich
Water
Regular; consistently moist
Hardiness
9–11 (tropical); 4–9 (hardy)
Lifespan
Perennial in warm climates

Did you know

  • Each hibiscus flower lasts only one day, but a healthy plant produces blooms continuously.
  • Hibiscus tea (made from Hibiscus sabdariffa calyces) has been shown in studies to lower blood pressure.
  • The hibiscus is the national flower of Malaysia, South Korea, and Haiti, and the state flower of Hawaii.
  • There are over 200 species of hibiscus.
  • In Hawaii, a hibiscus worn behind the left ear means 'taken'; behind the right means 'single.'

Uses

  • Ornamental
  • Tea
  • Fiber (Kenaf)
  • Hair care
  • Natural dye