hibiscus

noun

hi·​bis·​cus hī-ˈbi-skəs 

hə-

: any of a large genus (Hibiscus) of herbs, shrubs, or small trees of the mallow family with large showy flowers and usually dentate leaves

Did you know?

There are about 250 species of shrubs, trees, and herbaceous plants in the genus Hibiscus, which belongs to the mallow family. They are native to warm temperate and tropical regions. Several are cultivated as ornamentals for their showy flowers. The tropical Chinese or Hawaiian hibiscus, which is also called China rose, has large, somewhat bell-shaped reddish blossoms. The East African hibiscus, a drooping shrub, is often grown in hanging baskets indoors.

Examples of hibiscus in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The space is designed to reflect Petit-Frère’s Haitian heritage, incorporating elements like the hibiscus flower into the decor, alongside a VIP lounge for private appointments, fittings, and even cocktails, bringing the FRÈRE aesthetic to life. —Cassell Ferere, Forbes, 19 Dec. 2024

This luxury Arabian perfume carries notes of papaya and lemon, peach and rose, coconut and hibiscus. —Hyphensocial Contributors, Rolling Stone, 4 Dec. 2024

My large hibiscus shrubs were damaged by roof-cleaning chemicals. —Tom MacCubbin, Orlando Sentinel, 18 Jan. 2025

Don’t hesitate to prune your hibiscus for shape and size, even in winter. —Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Latin, marshmallow

First Known Use

1706, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

hibiscus

noun

hi·​bis·​cus hī-ˈbis-kəs 

hə-

plural hibiscuses

: any of a large genus of herbs, shrubs, or small trees related to the mallow and having toothed leaves and large showy flowers