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

Made with real fruit and just a touch of sugar, Pink Guava (a new flavor released last summer) is juicy and bright, with notes of hibiscus and orange. — Editors Of Bon Appétit, Bon Appetit Magazine, 12 Aug. 2026

The Hibiscus Sol-Mate ($7) was a blend of (slightly caffeinated) yerba mate, hibiscus, rose, peppermint and lemongrass, with a fresh lemon slice and a hint of agave. — Deborah Vankin, Los Angeles Times, 11 Aug. 2026

Soaking chia seeds in hibiscus tea doesn’t appear to boost either ingredient’s benefits. — Kathleen Ferraro, Verywell Health, 10 Aug. 2026

In one photo, the Crime 101 star even donned a fresh hibiscus flower in shades of pink and orange to complement her ensemble. — Chanel Vargas, InStyle, 7 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Latin, marshmallow

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