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 concealer also has a blend of amino acids and a proprietary hibiscus complex that repair skin damage, lock in moisture, and brighten, leaving a soft, radiant glow. —Alyssa Morin, InStyle, 3 Jan. 2026

The antioxidants in hibiscus tea could decrease your risk of heart disease and certain cancers. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 31 Dec. 2025

The pastries—from croissants in the lobby cafe to the fine-dining dessert menu—are absolute works of art, studded with tropical flavors like tart passionfruit and delicate hibiscus; the program is led by Colombian chef John Moreno. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 30 Dec. 2025

Pruning hibiscus properly will boost blooming. —Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Dec. 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