Accession Count: 26
Common Name:
Chinese hibiscus, China rose
Family Name:
Malvaceae
Botanical Name:
Hibiscus rosa-sinensis
Sub Species:
Variety:
Forma:
Cultivar:
Characteristics:
The Chinese hibiscus is a broadleaf evergreen shrub that can reach up to 3m (10 ft) in height. Its stems are brown and have dark green, glabrous leaves that are alternately arranged on the stems. Leaves are ovate, have an acute apex, and serrate leaf margins (1). Leaves can be 7.6-15.2 cm (3-6 in) long and are equally wide and have 1 cm (½ in) long stipules in the axil buds (1, 2). Flowers appear in spring-summer and often return again in summer-fall (2). Flowers are conspicuous, range from a pinkish red or burgundy color but are often darker in color at the base of the flower (2). Corollas are funnel-shaped and are comprised of five large petals that subtend a large stamen with noticeable yellow filaments (1). They are hermaphrodite, can be 7.6-15.2 cm (3-6 in) long, and are solitary flowers borne on the axils of leaves that form towards the ends of branches (2, 3). Fruits are dry dehiscent capsules that appear in late summer or early fall.
Compound:
Hib ros
Geographic Origin:
East Asia
Ecozone Origin:
Palearctic
Biome Origin:
Dry Tropics and Temperate Forests
Natural History:
Because the Chinese hibiscus has extensively been cultivated for a very wide range of ethnobotanical uses, little is known about its ecology or its native origin (4). However, it is believed to be native to China and some regions and Tropical Asia (2). It has been distributed to countries in South America, North America, Central America, Africa, Europe, and Asia (4). It tends to reside at elevations from sea level to 3500 m (about 11,482 ft) (4). There have been reports of this plant found in disturbed sites, roadsides, and in border trails of remote wilderness areas (4). Its genus name, Hibiscus, is derived from a Greek and Latin name which translates to the name mallow (5). Its specific epithet comes from the word rosa which translates to rose, and sinensis translating to Chinese, in reference to its possible place of origin (5).
Cultivation Notes:
The Chinese Hibiscus is cold hardy to USDA zones 9-11 and can tolerate cold temperatures down to -4°C (about 24°F) (2, 6). They are commonly cultivated in tropical or subtropical climates but generally tend to prefer warmer climates (6). This plant benefits from moist soils, humidity, and moderately consistent watering (5). It would benefit from supplemental watering in hot and dry climates. It prefers organic soils that are well drained and moist enough to never let the roots dry (5). It also prefers to be planted in full sun or partial shade that prevents it from getting direct sunlight no more than 6 hours a day (2). It can be propagated by stem cuttings or by seed (seeds are quick to germinate) (2, 6). When planted, it should be placed 3-6 m (12-24 ft) apart to provide enough space for its mature size (2).
Ethnobotany:
The Chinese hibiscus is cultivated for ornamental usage, as well as for medicinal, edible, and other commercial uses. This plant was traditionally used in Indian and Chinese medicine because of all parts of the plants containing various medicinal properties (4). Flowers have been cultivated as an aphrodisiac, for its relief in inflammation or irritation, as well as to improve menstrual flow and to relieve intensely painful menstrual pains (6). They can also be used to treat fevers, bronchial coughs, and cystitis. Leaves can be used for its laxative properties to relieve constipation and to treat postpartum sicknesses, sores, fevers, and inflammation (6). Roots can also treat coughs and colds, and in concentration can also treat sore eyes (6). Its flowers are also of cultural importance to Malaysia and are even used for religious ceremonies in India as hair ornaments (4). In fact, the reason it is commonly cultivated as an ornamental plant is because of its showy flowers (4). Young leaves are known to be nutritious and can be eaten as a substitute for other leafy greens such as spinach (6). Flowers are also edible and can be eaten either raw or cooked (6). Flowers can also be used as purple dye for dyeing preserved fruits or vegetables (6). Its roots are also edible and are known to be fibrous (6). Black dye has been extracted from this plant's flowers to color black mascara or for shoe-blacking (6). Extracts of its flowers and leaves have been cultivated for cosmetic purposes including skin and hair conditioner because of its emollient properties and can be used as a bleaching agent (6).
Height:
6 - 10 feet
Width:
6 - 10 feet
Growth Rate:
Moderate Growing
Grow Season:
Spring
Flower Season:
Summer
Color:
Pink
Function:
Accent
Spread:
Non-spreading
Allergen:
Non-allergenic
Invasive:
Benign
Toxicity:
Benign
Hardy:
Hardy
Water Use:
Moderate Water Use
Citations:
1. World Flora Online. Retrieved December 8, 2024
2. NC State Extension,Retrieved
December 8, 2024
3. Plants For A Future,Retrieved December 8, 2024
4. CABI Digital Diary,Retrieved December 8, 2024
5. Missouri Botanical Garden, Retrieved December 8, 2024
6. Useful Tropical Plants, Retrieved December 8, 2024
