Rose of Sharon, Chinese Hibiscus, Large-flowered Hibiscus
Hibiscus sinosyriacus
Family: Malvaceae
What it is like
A shrub about 3 m high. It loses its leaves during the year. The branches have hairs only when young. The leaf stalk is 3-6 cm long. The leaf blade is oval or wedge shaped and 7-12 cm long by 7-12 cm wide. Usually they have 3 lobes. These are triangle shape and the centre one is largest.
There are about 220 Hibiscus species.
Where it is found
It is a subtropical plant. It prefers a well drained soil. It requires full sun. Plants can stand cool climates but flowers are damaged by frosts. In China it grows in valleys between 500-1000 m altitude.
Countries/locations it is found in
Asia, China
How it is used for food
Young leaves are eaten raw or cooked. A tea is made from the leaves and flowers. The root is edible but fibrous.
Edible parts
Flowers, leaves, root, tea
How it is grown
Plants are grown from seed. Seed are normally quick to germinate. Plants can be grown in a nursery and transplanted. Cutings can be used. Plants can be pruned if required although it is mostly not required.
Flowers are produced on the current seasons growth.
Its other names
Local names
Dahua mujin, Hua mu jin