Lesser mallow.
Hibiscus hirtus

Family: Malvaceae

What it is like

A herb or small shrub. It grows 1.5 m tall. The leaves have teeth along the edge. The flowers are pink or orange and smaller than most Hibiscus. They are 3 cm across. The flowers open at midday. The pods has about 12-15 seeds.

Where it is found

A tropical plant.

Countries/locations it is found in

Asia, East Timor, Fiji, India, Malaysia, Pacific, SE Asia, Timor-Leste

How it is used for food

The leaves are eaten as a vegetable.

Edible parts

Leaves

How it is grown

Plants are grown from seed.

Its other names

Local names

Dupari, Lal-surgumini, Nareri, Suamani, Suryamani

Synonyms

Hibiscus rosa-malabarica Ker Gawl.;