Description
The hibiscus from its scientific name Hibiscus spp comes from the Greek word which means "marshmallow". It is a genus of annual or perennial flowering plant that has several hundred species. The hibiscus is part of the Malvaceae family.
They are plants known since ancient times. Indeed, they were cultivated in Egypt in Southeast Asia for their ornamental character but also for their edible fruits.
Imported to Europe during the 12th century by the Moors of Spain, some species were introduced to America in the 17th century by slaves.
The shrub can reach 5 m high and as much wide. The leaves are alternate, simple, oval, or lanceolate, with a toothed or wavy edge.
The flowers generally actinomorphic, that is to say with central symmetry, are isolated or grouped in inflorescence.
The calyx has five free sepals, the corolla has five free petals or slightly united at the base.
The numerous stamens are fused together, forming a long tube.
The pistil quite often has five ovaries and a long style passing inside the tube of the stamens. The stigma does not open until the stamens are withered, allowing cross-fertilization.
The fruits are capsules that open when ripe to release the seeds, which are often hairy.
The flowers are monochrome or two-colored. They are twisted before the complete opening. They can appear from March to October if the plant is in the required conditions. However, some cultivars can flower all year round. One of the species, the Chinese Rose Hibiscus, closes and falls off after 24 hours.
Presence in Martinique
Obviously, hibiscus is very present in Martinique, from north to south of the island. He nicely colors the storefronts of local houses. It is found in all colors, from bright red, to orange, to yellow through pale pink. The hibiscus and the hummingbird are often taken as the logo representing the island as the hibiscus is so important in the island.
But the hibiscus is not present only in Martinique. It is found throughout the tropical part of the globe and there are very many species! Indeed, there are more than 200 species and nearly 30,000 varieties around the world.
It is the national flower of Malaysia and the emblem of the Hawaiian archipelago. The most widely cultivated species in the world is the "Rosa sinensis", also called "Chinese rose", with its large, bright red flowers.
Hibiscus is planted mostly for ornamental purposes but it is a plant where several species also have medicinal properties. Hibiscus is a urinary antiseptic and a diuretic. The flowers remedy menstrual pain. The root is used to calm coughs and clear the airways. Hibiscus is recommended to fight against hypertension and cholesterol. Dried flowers are used in the composition of karkadé, a very popular drink in Africa, especially in Egypt.
Hibiscus can be used to prepare a refreshing drink; it is also a mild laxative. It is antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and analgesic. It is a diuretic and a relaxant of the uterine muscles.
Its soothing properties make it used in many beauty products (shower gel, body milk, soaps).
Maintenance
For most species, these are heat-loving plants because of their tropical origins (20° to 32° C seems to be ideal). Hibiscus is a plant requiring a lot of light (at least 6 hours / day). The strong and direct sunshine throughout the day is however completely harmful.
It needs to be watered if it is in a climate not conducive to frequent rainfall. So remember to water it twice a week while waiting for the soil to dry completely between the two waterings. During winter and autumn in temperate countries it requires less watering.
There are many diseases that can put the health of your hibiscus at risk. A hibiscus that withers or whose leaves are tilting inward is a hibiscus that suffers from too much heat or too much exposure to the sun. To remedy this, change its place. A significant drop in the leaves of the hibiscus, on the other hand, indicates an excess of water. If flower buds fall off before they hatch, the air near the plant is too dry (nearby heat source).
