Different Types of Hibiscus

The hibiscus is an annual and a member of the Malvaceae family. Also known as the Rose of China, the hibiscus blooms almost year-round and is characterized by the large, colorful flowers it produces. There are several types of hibiscus plants, and they vary in size and color.

Hibiscus Mutabilis
The Hibiscus mutabilis also is known as the Confederate rose or the Dixie rosemallow. When planted in northern areas, this hibiscus blooms like a perennial. In southern regions, it takes on a shrublike form, according to Texas A&M University. The Confederate rose usually blooms from the summer through the fall. Flowers are approximately 4 to 6 inches. Confederate rose colors are pink or white and change to red. This plant grows best in well-drained soil and prefers partial shade or full sun.

Hibiscus Rosa-Sinensis
Hibiscus rosa-sinensis also is known as the Chinese hibiscus. This plant does not fare well during the cold winter months and should be moved inside to avoid plant loss or damage from the cold. The flowers that bloom on the Chinese hibiscus are pink, red, yellow and orange. They usually last for one or two days, but this plant blooms constantly if it is healthy, according to the University of Arkansas, Division of Agriculture. This plant prefers well-drained soil and pruning back is necessary in January or February.

Hibiscus Syriacus
The Hibiscus syriacus also is known as the rose of Sharon or the althea. This is the most commonly grown hibiscus. The rose of Sharon is a deciduous shrub that grows best in full sun to partial shade. This hibiscus blooms in various shades of salmon, pink, lavender and white. Prune this hibiscus into a tree the latter part of February or keep it as a shrublike plant.

Hibiscus Coccineus
The Hibiscus coccineus also is known as the Texas star hibiscus and the scarlet rosemallow. This lovely plant produces red flowers that are approximately 3 to 4 inches in diameter. Texas star hibiscus easily is propagated from cuttings or seed and thrives in well-drained soil. This hibiscus likes full sun and is susceptible to injury from frost. Mulching in the winter is necessary to avoid root injury. Prune in the early spring, especially if the plant is damaged from frost, advises Texas A&M University.

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About Hibiscus

Hibiscus is a large genus of tropical flowers and is sometimes known as rosemallow. These flowering plants are part of the family Malvaceae, which includes plants such as cocoa, okra and cotton. It is native to warm climates and grows throughout the world. Hibiscus includes both annual and perennial plants, shrubs and small trees.

Function

Hibiscus is typically grown by gardeners for its attractive flowers or used in landscaping. However, it also has many other uses outside of the garden. It is a main ingredient in herbal teas and jams--and some species are even used as a vegetable. It is also commonly used in herbal medicine.

In the Hindu religion, hibiscus is used as an offering to the goddess Kali and the god Ganesha. In southern India, the plant is used for hair care. Protective oils for the hair are made from the leaves and flowers, then applied to the scalp and hair to prevent dandruff and hair loss.

Hibiscus flowers are also used by Hawaiian women. A single flower is tucked behind one ear, an indication of the woman's availability for marriage. In Mexico, the dried plant is eaten as a delicacy. In the Philippines, children use the sticky juices from crushed hibiscus to blow bubbles through a Papaya stalk.

Features

Hibiscus features simple, alternate leaves with a lobed margin. The flowers are brightly colored, large and trumpet-shaped with at least five petals, and they grow from 4 to 15 cm in width. The colors range from white to pink or red, yellow or purple. Hibiscus fruit is dry and contains several seeds in each of its five lobes. The stems are woody, and the plant can grow anywhere from 4 inches to 15 feet in height.

Types

There are many different types of hibiscus. The most common is the common garden hibiscus, or Hibiscus Syriacus. In tropical regions, the Chinese hibiscus is most commonly grown and prized for its ornamental flowers.

There are more than 200 different species of hibiscus known today. Some of these include California hibiscus, Neches river-rose mallow, Phillip Island Hibiscus, Native Rosella and Hau.

Benefits
Hibiscus is aromatic and astringent. It is used in herbal medicine because of its diuretic properties. It is also known to lower fevers and provide the body with vitamin C. It contains mucilage, organic acids and pectins, which contribute to its healing properties.

Warning
Some species of hibiscus produce seed pods covered in hairs that may irritate the skin. It's best to wear gloves while handling the plant. Another disadvantage of hibiscus is, although the flowers are large and showy, they typically last for a very short period. They are also known for pest infestation, specifically Japanese beetles. However, this problem can usually be avoided with proper care and maintenance.

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