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

Scents range from Fire, a smoky gourmand with juniper berry, tobacco accord, and Tahitian vanilla; to Libertine, an aromatic citrus with notes of pomelo, hibiscus, and cedarwood inspired by the Terrace Lofts at the hotel. —Michael Stefanov, Robb Report, 11 July 2024

For those needing a java fix, the Root ($8) consists of coffee, vanilla, hibiscus, espresso and aquafaba. —Lois K. Solomon, Sun Sentinel, 8 July 2024

Five years later, the dream bloomed, when the land was cleared and 50 volunteers planted a plethora of perennials: spice and dogwood bushes, elderberries, black-eyed Susans, hibiscus – anything that would attract pollinators. —Erin Couch, The Enquirer, 26 June 2024

Special juices and drinks are available, including mango punch and a Sorrel made with the blossoms of the hibiscus plant. —Stephen Underwood, Hartford Courant, 8 Mar. 2024

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