Dwarf native hibiscus
Hibiscus geranioides
Family: Malvaceae
What it is like
A herb which grows for one or two years. It grows 30-60 cm high and spreads 30-50 cm across. The stems are erect. There are only a few branches. It has a few rigid hairs and bristles. The leaves are 2-4 cm long by 2-3 cm wide. They are deeply divided into 3-5 lobes. They are dark green with stiff hairs on both surfaces. There are teeth along the edge. The flowers are 2-3 cm across and pink. They occur singly in the axils of the upper leaves. The fruit is a capsule 1 cm long by 1 cm wide. It is round and smooth. The seeds are smooth.
There are about 220 Hibiscus species.
Where it is found
A tropical plant. It grows in northern Australia. It suits tropical, subtropical and warm temperate climates. It can grow in full sun or light shade. It needs well drained soil. It can tolerate some frosts.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia (country/location of origin)
How it is used for food
Edible parts
Fruit
How it is grown
Plants can be grown from seed or cuttings.
Its other names
Local names
Pelparr