Hibiscus Overview
Hibiscus is one of Hawaii's most recognizable flowers. In 1923, the Territory of Hawaii passed a law making hibiscus the official state flower. The native yellow hibiscus, known as ma'o hau hele in the Hawaiian language, is the flower most closely tied to that state symbol today. Its scientific name is Hibiscus brackenridgei.
Hawaii has five endemic hibiscus species, meaning they are found naturally only in the Islands. More than 30 introduced hibiscus species also grow in Hawaii, and many have been crossed with Hawaiian species. This has created a wide range of garden hibiscus with different colors, shapes and sizes.
Flowers, Colors and Plant Size
Hibiscus flowers are large and easy to notice. The petals can grow from about 2 to 8 inches across, and the plant itself may reach 3 to 20 feet in height. Depending on the variety, hibiscus blooms may appear in yellow, red, pink, orange, white, purple or mixed colors.
Hibiscus is native to southern China, where the flower is called Fu Sang. In India, it is called Sapattnu-mal. The juices from the flower can be used as food coloring, adding another practical use beyond its ornamental value.
In Hawaii, hibiscus grows in home gardens, parks, resort landscapes and sunny planted areas. For related flower pages, compare plumeria, pikake, gardenia and orchid.
