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H. rosa-sinensis
Pink double hibiscus is one of the oldest shrubs in the yard...around 15 to 20 years old probably. Must have weathered years of heat, humidity, rain and intense cold waves. It has flowered almost non-stop all through the year. The flowers in full bloom are quiet attractive and look great even when they drop on to the ground.
Grows best in areas with temperate to tropical climates.
The species of hibiscus which seems to have the greatest number of variants is Hibiscus rosa sinensis. These plants appear to have innumerable variations in color and shape in both single and double forms, due to the interest in these plants by early hibiscus fanciers who hybridised Hibiscus rosa-sinensis with other compatible species. Today there is almost unlimited variation in shades of color.
The individual flower of hibiscus usually lasts but for one day, however another bloom takes its place as soon as it dies and for this reason the plants appear to be always in bloom. The best flowering time in most climates is usually .summer and autumn. As the days get shorter and the weather cooler, the buds build up and on warm autumn days explode in a blaze of colour! The flowers last longer in the cooler autumn weather than in the heat of summer, however some modern longlasting varieties will last two to three days even in the very hot weather.
The hibiscus possesses the unusual trait of not wilting after it is picked. Whether left on the shrub, picked and put in water or laid out dry on a table top the flowers remain fresh and crisp. Picking buds early in the morning before they begin opening and placing them in a refrigerator retards opening. When removed later in the day or early evening the buds open and complete their normal cycle. Buds may be held back for one or two days, which is very handy when one is entertaining guests.
With so many virtues it is little wonder that H. rosa-sinensis has been called `queen of the tropical flowers'.
Ref: http://www.hibiscusworld.com/BeersBook/2... ( Excellent info for those interested in growing the shrub.)
P.S : The fallen flowers can be collected and pressed- makes a wonderful nature inspired activity for children.
Spotted on Sep 5, 2013
Submitted on Sep 5, 2013
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Uploaded more pics of my oldest Hibiscus shrub.