An Expert Guide To The Different Types Of Hibiscus Flower

The hibiscus, or Bunga Raya, is a common feature in Singapore’s parks and gardens. There are many different types of hibiscus grown here. The hibiscus family includes hundreds of varieties found across the world. Each type differs in appearance, growing needs, and cultural relevance. 

This guide outlines the main types of hibiscus, including those suited to Singapore’s climate and others adapted to cooler regions. Whether you are new to gardening or interested in plant diversity, this overview offers clear insights into the many forms and uses of the hibiscus flower.

Tropical vs. Hardy Hibiscus

To truly understand the hibiscus, one must first recognise its two primary classifications: tropical and hardy. This fundamental difference dictates where and how these beautiful flowers can be grown.

Tropical Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis)

These are the hibiscus flowers we know and love in Singapore. True to their name, they thrive in warm, humid conditions and cannot survive frost. They are evergreen shrubs, meaning they keep their glossy, deep green leaves year-round. While each individual flower may only last a day or two, a healthy plant will produce a continuous succession of spectacular blooms in a dazzling array of colours including red, orange, yellow, peach, and countless multicoloured combinations.

Hardy Hibiscus (Hibiscus syriacus, Hibiscus moscheutos)

In contrast, hardy hibiscus varieties are built for cooler climates. These plants are deciduous, losing their leaves in autumn and entering a dormant state through winter. When summer arrives, they burst back to life, often producing enormous flowers that can be larger than a dinner plate. 

While their colour palette is more limited, typically shades of white, pink, red, and purple, their sheer size and resilience make them a garden centrepiece in temperate regions like the UK and North America.

Common Hibiscus Varieties Around the World

Beyond the two main families lies a treasure trove of species, each with unique characteristics. Let's explore some of the most significant hibiscus varieties.

1.Hibiscus rosa-sinensis

• Common Names: Chinese Hibiscus, Tropical Hibiscus, Bunga Raya, Shoe Flower.
• Appearance: This is the quintessential hibiscus. Its flowers, typically 10-15 cm across, come in single and double-petal forms. The colour spectrum is immense, thanks to extensive hybridisation, resulting in thousands of cultivars. It features a prominent stamen that gives it a classic, elegant look.
• Global Significance: It is famously the national flower of Malaysia, where it is called Bunga Raya, meaning "celebratory flower." Its five petals represent the five national principles of Malaysia, and its vibrant red colour symbolises courage. Historically, its petals were used to make a black dye for polishing shoes, earning it the nickname "Shoe Flower."
• Use in Singapore: It is a cornerstone of Singaporean horticulture, widely used in parks, along roadsides, as screening hedges in condominiums, and as a beloved potted plant in HDB gardens.

2. Hibiscus syriacus

• Common Names: Rose of Sharon, Althea.
• Appearance: An upright, deciduous shrub that can grow up to 4 metres tall. Its flowers are smaller than its tropical cousin, usually 5-10 cm, and appear in late summer. Blooms come in lovely shades of white, pink, lavender, and even blue, often with a contrasting deep red "eye" in the centre.
• Global Significance: Hibiscus syriacus is the national flower of South Korea, where it is known as Mugunghwa. The name translates to "eternal blossom," symbolising the resilience and enduring spirit of the Korean people. It is a cherished cultural symbol, appearing in the national anthem and on official emblems.
• Uses: It is a popular ornamental shrub in temperate gardens across Europe and North America, valued for its late-season blooms and tolerance to urban pollution.

3. Hibiscus sabdariffa

• Common Names: Roselle, Red Sorrel, Jamaica Sorrel, Karkadé.
• Appearance: This species is grown not for its flower, but for what comes after. The plant produces simple, pale yellow flowers that, once faded, leave behind a bright red, fleshy pod called a calyx. It is these calyces that are harvested.
• Culinary Uses Around the World: The tart, cranberry-like flavour of the Roselle calyx is its claim to fame. It's dried and steeped to make hibiscus tea, a popular caffeine-free beverage enjoyed globally. It is the star ingredient in drinks like Agua de Jamaica in Mexico, Bissap in West Africa, and Karkadé in Egypt. It’s also used to make jams, syrups, and sauces.
• Growing in Singapore: Roselle can be grown in our climate, but as a shrubby annual, it requires a bit more space than a standard hibiscus plant.

4. Hibiscus schizopetalus

• Common Names: Fringed Hibiscus, Japanese Lantern, Coral Hibiscus.
• Appearance: Instantly recognisable by its extraordinary flowers. The petals are finely dissected and curl backwards, hanging from a long stalk like a delicate, fringed lantern. The flowers are typically a mix of red and pink, creating a stunning visual effect.
• Use: This is more of a collector’s plant. Its intricate, exotic appearance makes it a prized ornamental specimen in tropical gardens and conservatories. While less common, it adds a touch of whimsical elegance wherever it's grown.

5. Hibiscus tiliaceus

• Common Names: Sea Hibiscus, Mahoe, Baru Baru.
• Appearance: Native to Singapore and other tropical coastlines, this is a hardy, salt-tolerant tree or large shrub. It has distinctive heart-shaped leaves and large, funnel-shaped flowers. The flowers perform a daily colour-change, opening bright yellow in the morning and aging to a dull pink or red by the afternoon before they drop.
• Ecological and Traditional Uses: The Sea Hibiscus plays a vital role in preventing coastal erosion. Traditionally, its bark was used to make rope and fishing nets, while its leaves and flowers were used in remedies.
• Relevance: You can spot this resilient native plant thriving along the coastlines of our parks, such as East Coast Park and Pasir Ris Park.

6. Hibiscus moscheutos

• Common Names: Swamp Rose Mallow, Dinner Plate Hibiscus.
• Appearance: This hardy hibiscus is famed for one thing: the colossal size of its flowers. Blooms can reach up to 12 inches (30 cm) in diameter – literally the size of a dinner plate. They come in dramatic shades of deep red, pure white, and bright pink, often with a striking crimson centre.
• Habitat and Use: Native to the wetlands of North America, this perennial thrives in moist soil and full sun. It is a show-stopping addition to gardens in temperate zones, providing an unforgettable floral display during the summer months.

A Summary of Hibiscus Differences

To bring it all together, it helps to compare these key players. The most common distinction lies between the tropical Hibiscus rosa-sinensis (Bunga Raya) and the hardy Hibiscus syriacus (Rose of Sharon). 

The former is an evergreen plant for warm climates with large flowers in every colour imaginable, while the latter is a deciduous shrub for cooler zones with smaller blooms in shades of white, pink, and purple. Both serve as national flowers, for Malaysia and South Korea respectively, highlighting their cultural importance.

Among the hardy types, the Rose of Sharon is joined by the magnificent Hibiscus moscheutos, or Dinner Plate Hibiscus. While both are built for the cold, the Dinner Plate hibiscus stands out for its truly giant flowers in dramatic reds, whites, and pinks, making it a showstopper in temperate summer gardens.

Back in the tropics, the diversity continues. The Hibiscus sabdariffa (Roselle) is unique in that it's cultivated not for its fleeting flower but for its tart, red calyx, which is a star in kitchens worldwide for making tea and jams. 

For pure ornamental wonder, the Hibiscus schizopetalus, or Fringed Hibiscus, offers delicate, lantern-like flowers that are a collector's dream. Finally, the native Sea Hibiscus, Hibiscus tiliaceus, serves a dual purpose as a robust coastal protector and a beautiful landscape tree with flowers that cleverly change from yellow to red in a single day.

Choosing the Right Hibiscus for Your Home

Inspired to add a hibiscus to your home? Given our climate, tropical varieties are the natural choice. Here’s how to select the right one for your space.

• For HDB Balconies & Small Spaces: Look for compact cultivars of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis. Many modern hybrids are bred to be smaller and bushier, making them perfect for container gardening. Ensure your pot has excellent drainage and place it where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight. A sunny spot is crucial for abundant blooming.
• For Landed Property Gardens: With more space, your options expand. Use hibiscus plants to create a stunning flowering hedge for privacy, or plant a single, impressive specimen as a garden focal point. You could even dedicate a patch to growing Hibiscus sabdariffa for a rewarding harvest of Roselle calyces.

A little bit of care goes a long way. Regular watering (but don’t let the soil get soggy), periodic feeding with a balanced fertiliser, and occasional pruning to remove old wood and encourage new growth will ensure your hibiscus plant rewards you with a constant display of vibrant flowers.

Conclusion On The Types of Hibiscus Flower

Understanding the different types of hibiscus flower opens up a world of appreciation for this versatile plant. Whether it’s the hardy perennial that signals summer in a cool climate or the tropical evergreen that offers a daily dose of sunshine, there is truly a hibiscus for every garden, every climate, and every purpose. 

We hope this guide inspires you to see the humble hibiscus in a new light, armed with the confidence to choose and care for a variety that brings a perfect splash of colour to your own space.

For all your flower needs, check our website, Singapore Florist, to find different types of beautiful flowers for your special occasion.

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Frequently Asked Questions About The Types of Hibiscus Flower

What Are The Main Types Of Hibiscus?

The two main categories are Tropical Hibiscus, which thrive in warm climates like Singapore and are evergreen, and Hardy Hibiscus, which can survive freezing winters by becoming dormant and are suited for temperate climates.

What Is The Most Common Hibiscus In Singapore?

The most common hibiscus in Singapore is Hibiscus rosa-sinensis and its many hybrids. It is perfectly suited to our hot and humid weather and is used extensively in parks, gardens, and on balconies.

Can Hibiscus Grow Well In Singapore's Climate?

Yes, tropical hibiscus varieties like Hibiscus rosa-sinensis grow exceptionally well in Singapore's equatorial climate. They love the full sun and humidity.

What Is The Difference Between Tropical And Hardy Hibiscus?

Tropical hibiscus (H. rosa-sinensis) has glossy evergreen leaves, comes in a wider range of colours (including orange and yellow), and cannot tolerate frost. Hardy hibiscus (H. syriacus, H. moscheutos) has duller, deciduous leaves, produces flowers in shades of white, pink, and red, and can withstand freezing temperatures.

Which Hibiscus Flower Is Edible?

The most well-known edible hibiscus is Hibiscus sabdariffa, or Roselle. Its red calyces are used to make tea, jam, and drinks. The flower petals of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis are also technically edible and are sometimes used as a garnish in salads.

How Do I Care For A Hibiscus Plant On An Hdb Balcony?

Choose a compact variety and plant it in a well-draining pot. Place it in the sunniest part of your balcony, ensuring it gets at least 6 hours of direct sun. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry and prune it occasionally to maintain a bushy shape and encourage more flowers.

What Is The Bunga Raya Flower?

Bunga Raya is the Malay name for Hibiscus rosa-sinensis. It means "celebratory flower" and is the national flower of Malaysia, symbolizing courage and unity.