hibiscus

noun

hi·​bis·​cus hī-ˈbi-skəs 

hə-

plural hibiscuses

: 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

Frequently Asked Questions All hibiscus needs some sort of pruning every year, but the amount depends on the type of hibiscus. — Nadia Hassani, The Spruce, 3 Sep. 2026

Make a soothing tea with hot water and herbal tea, like hibiscus or chamomile. — Jillian Kubala, HEALTH, 2 Sep. 2026

There’s also been lots of moments to dress up for too, with megawatt tours from Harry Styles, Ariana Grande, and Zara Larsson; maximalist pop stars with fans eager to follow their lead in sequins and ties, hibiscus flowers in hair. — Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 31 Aug. 2026

Lemon blueberry, blackberry hibiscus and blood orange tangerine flavors will all be available. — Bebe Hodges, Cincinnati Enquirer, 28 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Latin, marsh mallow

First Known Use

1573, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for hibiscus

• meniscus
• discus
• viscous

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