The Hibiscus family is quite extensive and varied, there are over 200 species ranging from woody shrubs to small trees, with the two main categories being the tropical Hibiscus and the hardy Hibiscus.
Hibiscus rosa-Sinensis from the family of Malvaceae. Its name is derived from the Greek word Hibiscus meaning “mallow” and rosa-Sinensis, its definition being “rose of China”. In Singapore, locals call the flower Bunga Raya or the flower of celebration.
The exact origin of the plant itself appears unknown but is believed to come from Asia. It is commonly used in cosmetics such as mascaras, hair dye and shoe polish. Some shampoos and conditioners made with Hibiscus ingredients are said to promote hair growth and stop dandruff.
The simplest way to tell the difference between the tropical and the hardy is the leaves and what climate it grows in, the tropical grows best in warm climates and does not handle cold climates very well it has dark green glossy leaves and is evergreen keeping its beautiful foliage year-round.
Health Benefits Of Hibiscus Flower
Hibiscus sabdariffa was used to treat high blood pressure in both African and Asian traditions Due to its high levels of antioxidants and vitamin C it has a massive range of health benefits, lowering the risk of heart disease and helping lower cholesterol.
Used as a treatment for loss of appetite, colds, dissolving phlegm, gentle laxative and helps with stomach irritation. It has also been proven to lower blood pressure and help regulate body temperature. Used worldwide in teas and is well-known for its tangy tart flavour with undertones of cranberry.
Hibiscus Spiritual Meaning
The Hibiscus flower has long been used by witches and wizards alike, to attract love, lust, passion and prophetic dreams. Carry the dried hibiscus flower in a sachet in your handbag or pocket to attract love and a possible soul mate.
Hibiscus flowers have been used throughout centuries as an aphrodisiac. Egyptian women are banned from drinking tea made with this herb because it is said to induce lusty feelings. Use this herb for spells dealing with love or lust, or put the petals into a sachet to bring on passion and love.
Hibiscus is also used in incense mixtures for divination and clairvoyance. Hibiscus flowers aid divination when placed in a wooden bowl containing water, amplifying scrying abilities. The blossoms are used in love incense and sachets and in the tropics; the blossoms are placed in wreaths in marriage ceremonies.
The Dobu of the Western Pacific places the blossoms in wooden scrying bowls. It is also used as Protection against Negativity and Evil. It facilitates Psychic Abilities and attracts good Spirits.
Growing Tips
Whilst the Hardy is capable of flourishing in cooler climates, it has lighter green heart-shaped leaves and tastes deciduous. Both are best known for their vibrant and beautiful flowers. Flowers are large and trumpet-shaped with five or more petals.
The Hardy’s flowers last up to a week and range mainly in the colours red, white and pink. The tropical only lasts for a day or two, with the colours ranging from double to single-layer yellow/gold, red, orange, pink and peach.
Various parts of the plant make great spices, jams soups and natural flavouring. The plant fibre is used to make quality twine, which is then used to construct rope, nets, and roofing materials.
This Amazing plant is popular with gardeners and landscapers alike, due to its pretty ornamental flowers with exposed pollen that attracts wild birdlife. The crushed leaves and flowers spread into a paste and are left on the skin for 15 min, helping unclog pores and soothe the skin after a sunburn.
Want Your Own Hibiscus Print?
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