Hibiscus, Tropical Hibiscus, Rose of China
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Angiosperms, Class: Eudicots, Order: Malvales, Family: Malvaceae, Genus: Hibiscus, Species: Hibiscus rosa-sinensis · Malvaceae (Mallow family) · Simple, perennial/evergreen (in tropical climates) or deciduous (in temperate climates)
Species
Hibiscus rosa-sinensis
Leaf Type
Simple, perennial/evergreen (in tropical climates) or deciduous (in temperate climates)
Family
Malvaceae (Mallow family)
Shape
Ovate to broadly lanceolate with an acute or acuminate apex
Size
Approximately 3-4 inches long and 1.5-2 inches wide based on notebook line scaling; typical range is 2-6 inches.
Margin
Serrate (toothed), particularly along the upper two-thirds of the blade; the base may be nearly entire.
Arrangement
Alternate
Rarity
Very Common; ubiquitous in landscaping and as a houseplant.
Color & Pattern
Deep dark green upper surface, slightly paler green undersides; uniform coloration without variegation visible.
Venation Pattern
Pinnate with a prominent midrib; secondary veins are somewhat palmate at the very base.
Texture & Surface
Smooth (glabrous) and slightly glossy on the upper surface; somewhat leathery (coriaceous) when mature.
Description
A bushy, evergreen shrub or small tree flowering year-round in hot climates. It produces large, trumpet-shaped flowers with prominent staminal columns in shades of red, pink, yellow, or white.
Key Features
The combination of the serrated margin, ovate shape with a pointed tip, and glossy green texture is diagnostic for the Hibiscus genus.
Habitat
Tropical and subtropical regions; prefers well-drained, fertile soil with full sun to partial shade.
Geographic Range
Native to East Asia (likely China); widely naturalized and cultivated in tropical/subtropical zones globally.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good; the leaf is taped into a notebook, showing some slight dehydration/wilting and Mechanical damage at the apex and base from the tape.
Interesting Facts
The flowers are used in many cultures for hair care, as a pH indicator in science labs, and are the national flower of Malaysia.
Medicinal & Uses
Used as an ornamental plant; flowers are edible and used in teas or salads; traditionally used for fever reduction and hair growth treatments.
Ecological Role
Provides nectar for hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees; serves as a host plant for several moth species.
Similar Species
Hibiscus syriacus (Rose of Sharon), which has more deeply lobed leaves, and Malavaviscus arboreus (Turk's Cap).
Foraging Tips
Look for the large, showy flowers; in garden settings, check for the characteristic central 'spike' (stamen/pistil) in the blooms.
Toxicity Warning
Safe for humans (flowers/leaves) but can cause mild digestive upset in cats and dogs if consumed in large quantities. Toxicity Level: Non-toxic to humans.