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

This hardy hibiscus blooms from summer through fall and is best pruned in late winter or early spring during dormancy before any leaves appear. —Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 5 Oct. 2025

Purple tea's distinct color comes from anthocyanins, the same antioxidants in hibiscus tea and berries, combined with catechins. —Caitlin Pagán, Verywell Health, 2 Oct. 2025

El Rey highlights bacanora (a traditional agave spirit) with hibiscus, raspberry and chile. —Connie Ogle, Miami Herald, 30 Sep. 2025

With refreshing drinks like passion fruit lemonade, hibiscus infusion and soursop lemonade, your tastebuds are sure to do a happy dance at Rasin Haitian Restaurant. —Loán Lake, Charlotte Observer, 16 Sep. 2025

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Latin, marshmallow

First Known Use

1706, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for hibiscus

• meniscus
• discus
• viscous
• viscus

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