Hibiscus

Hibiscus is a genus of flowering plants in the mallow family, Malvaceae. It is quite large, containing several hundred species that are native to warm-temperate, subtropical and tropical regions throughout the world. Member species are often noted for their showy flowers and are commonly known simply as hibiscus, or less widely known as rose mallow.

Description

The genus includes both annual and perennial herbaceous plants, as well as woody shrubs and small trees. The generic name is derived from the Greek word ἱβίσκος (hibískos), which was the name Pedanius Dioscorides (ca. 40–90) gave to Althaea officinalis.

Uses

The hibiscus is used for a variety of medicinal purposes in many cultures. It is often used in the treatment of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, digestive disorders, and respiratory disorders. In addition, it is also used as a mild laxative and diuretic.

Cultivation

Hibiscus species are used as food plants by the larvae of some Lepidopteran species, including Chionodes hibiscella, Hypercompe hambletoni, the nutmeg moth, and the turnip moth.

See also

• Hibiscus tea
• Hibiscus syriacus
• Hibiscus rosa-sinensis

References

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External links

• Hibiscus.org

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