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

For a final summery flourish, the artist added 3D hibiscus flowers. — Ariel Wodarcyk, InStyle, 23 June 2026

There’s marigold and chamomile for their significance in Mexican culture, and the hibiscus flower, which has a long history across the Pacific Rim, tracing a lot of the places that ended up with chamoy and sour plums. — Stephanie Shih june 17, Los Angeles Times, 17 June 2026

Timed to the start of summer, members can get a Medium DQ Sparkler or DQ Cooler in classic lemonade or the new hibiscus flavor for 50 cents each in the DQ app from June 15-21. — Kelly McCarthy, ABC News, 17 June 2026

For an especially eye-catching variety, consider growing 'Disco Belle' hibiscus in your garden. — Ann Hinga Klein, Martha Stewart, 15 June 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