Hibiscus

Hibiscus is a genus of shrubby plants belonging to the marsh mallow family. The flowers have a characteristic central structure with five stigmas at the end and a number of stamens along its length. Hibiscus rosa sinensis is of tropical origin and produces showly colourful flowers. Hibiscus syriacus is deciduous and has mainly white / red flowers. Hibiscus trionum is a New Zealand native biennial that produces cream flowers with a block centre. Hibiscus diversifolius is another New Zealand native with flowers that look similar to H. trionum but the plant is more robust and is very spiny. Hibiscus esculentus, or okra, produces edible seed pods.

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Pictures:

		Hibiscus rosa-sinensis
		Hibiscus syriacus
		Hibiscus trionum
		Hibiscus diversifolius
		Okra

See also:  Food plants, NZ Natives, Trees & shrubs, Culture / Germination

Yellow

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis is of tropical origin and is only half hardy. Flower colours range from white and yellow to red, and the colours in between. The flowers of some cultivars have two colours and some are even double.

This hibiscus is the national flower of Malaysia.

Red Red Bud Pollen Orange - Opening

Pink Pink Pink Pink Bud Notice how the bud is red but as the petals unfurl, they turn pink.

Flying Flag

Hibiscus syriacus is a hardy deciduous shrub.

Flying Flag

Flower

This biennial is one of the few New Zealand native plants with large showy flowers. The flowers only lasts one day but are produced in such profusion that the shrub always seems to be covered in flowers. They open in the morning and are closed by late afternoon.

Bud Flower Flower Flower

This perennial is characterised by its numerous spines. It is only found in the far north, around swampy areas, and is quite rare now.

Flower Flower Buds

This annual produces edible seed pods, known variously as okra or ladies fingers. The pods are only edible when very young. Okra is used in dishes such as Gumbo of New Orleans cuisine, and in a number of Asian dishes.

Flower Buds Young Seed Pods Edible stage Dried Seed Pods