Hibiscus divaricatus

Family: Malvaceae

What it is like

A small shrub. It grows 1-2.5 m high and spreads 1-1.5 m wide. The stems have a few prickles. The leaves are 3.5-12.5 cm long by 1-4 cm wide. They are narrowly oval and only sometimes have 3 lobes. The leaf stalks are 0.5-2 cm long. The leaves are dark green and the midribs are prickly and there are teeth along the edge. The flowers are about 10 cm across. They are white with a pink edge and dark red spot in the centre. The fruit is a capsule 1.5-2 cm long by 1.2-1.3 cm wide. They are oval and have a beak. They are yellowish and have hairs. The seeds are smooth.

There are about 220 Hibiscus species.

Where it is found

It grows in subtropical to warm temperate climates. It needs well drained soils. It can tolerate light frosts.

Countries/locations it is found in

Australia (country/location of origin)

How it is used for food

The roots and buds of young plants are eaten raw.

Edible parts

Roots, buds, shoots

How it is grown

Plants can be grown from seed or cuttings.

Young plants are fast growing.

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Abelmoschus divaricatus Walp.; Hibiscus divaricatus var. lutea Hochr.; Hibiscus magnificus F. Muell.;