Birthday
HydrangeasHibiscus is one of the most recognisable tropical flowers: a large funnel of petals with a long column of fused stamens in the centre. In some countries it has become a national symbol, in others a sacred offering to the gods, and the calyces of one species make the famous red hibiscus tea. Here is where the name comes from, which legends and customs surround hibiscus in Asia, Oceania and Africa, how hibiscus tea differs from the "Chinese rose" on your windowsill, and why you can ignore superstitions about the "flower of death".
Where the name comes from and how many hibiscuses there are
The word "hibiscus" is Greek: the physician Dioscorides used it for marshmallow, a relative from the same mallow family. Today the genus Hibiscus includes several hundred species, from tropical shrubs and trees to herbaceous perennials that survive Ukrainian winters. The most common houseplant is Chinese hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis), called the "Chinese rose", although it is unrelated to roses and its exact origin is unknown, as it is an ancient cultivated hybrid. We cover its care in detail in our hibiscus care guide.
Hibiscus as a national symbol
- Malaysia. The red hibiscus (bunga raya) was declared the national flower in 1960. Its five petals are linked to the five principles of the Rukunegara national philosophy.
- South Korea. The rose of Sharon, mugunghwa, is "the eternal flower that never fades": the shrub blooms from July to October, opening new flowers every day. It is mentioned in the national anthem.
- Hawaii. Since 1988 the official state flower has been the yellow hibiscus Hibiscus brackenridgei, a rare island endemic.
Legends and customs
- India. Red hibiscus (japa) is the favourite flower of the goddess Kali and a traditional offering to Ganesha. Garlands of it are brought to temples, and its colour is associated with the goddess's power and energy.
- Polynesia and Hawaii. A flower behind the ear is part of festive dress. According to popular belief, a flower behind the left ear means the wearer is taken and behind the right ear that she is single.
- The changing hibiscus. Flowers of Hibiscus mutabilis change colour in a single day from white to pink to crimson. This "chameleon flower" has inspired legends of love that blushes by evening.
- A short-lived bloom. Most hibiscus flowers last only a day or two. In many cultures this makes hibiscus a symbol of fleeting beauty and of enjoying the moment.
Hibiscus tea: hibiscus in a cup
The tart red drink known as karkade is made not from the "Chinese rose" but from the fleshy calyces of Hibiscus sabdariffa (roselle). It is drunk hot and cold in Egypt and Sudan, known as agua de jamaica in Mexico and as sorrel in Jamaica, where it is a Christmas drink with ginger. Karkade is rich in acids and anthocyanin pigments, which give it its ruby colour. Researchers are studying its effect on blood pressure, but it is not a medicine: people with low blood pressure, pregnant women and anyone on medication should consult a doctor. More flower teas in flower teas.
Superstitions: the "flower of death" and other myths
In post-Soviet countries hibiscus acquired gloomy nicknames such as "flower of death" or "bloodsucker", with the belief that untimely blooming foretells misfortune. There is no basis for this. Hibiscus flowers when it has enough light and warmth, and sudden winter flowering usually just means the plant sits on a sunny window above a radiator. In Asia and Oceania, by contrast, hibiscus symbolises joy, hospitality and love.
How to make hibiscus bloom at home
- Give it the brightest window and at least 4–6 hours of sun a day.
- A cool winter rest at 14–16 °C with moderate watering sets up plenty of buds in spring.
- Prune in spring: flowers form on new shoots.
- Do not turn the pot while it is in bud, or it may drop them.
For Ukrainian gardens choose hardy species such as rose of Sharon and herbaceous hibiscus; see hardy hibiscus.
Frequently asked questions
Are karkade and hibiscus the same thing?
Karkade is made from Hibiscus sabdariffa, while the windowsill plant is usually a different species, Chinese hibiscus.
Why is hibiscus called the Chinese rose?
It has long been grown in China, and its large flowers reminded Europeans of roses, although it belongs to the mallow family.
Does hibiscus bring bad luck?
No, that is a superstition. Where it grows wild, hibiscus stands for joy and hospitality.
How long does one flower last?
Usually 1–2 days, but the plant keeps opening new buds for weeks.
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Author: Maria Svitlovir
Graduated from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Institute of Biology and Medicine (2001). BSc in Biology, MSc in Horticulture. Writes about plants, works at a garden centre selecting and repotting plants, and contributes to plant reference guides.
