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Hibiscus divaricatus

R. Graham

Malvaceae Edible: Roots, Buds, Shoots 266 iNaturalist observations

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(c) Juliet, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC)

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Description

A small shrub. It grows 1-2.5 m high and spreads 1-1.5 m wide. The stems have a few prickles. The leaves are 3.5-12.5 cm long by 1-4 cm wide. They are narrowly oval and only sometimes have 3 lobes. The leaf stalks are 0.5-2 cm long. The leaves are dark green and the midribs are prickly and there are teeth along the edge. The flowers are about 10 cm across. They are white with a pink edge and dark red spot in the centre. The fruit is a capsule 1.5-2 cm long by 1.2-1.3 cm wide. They are oval and have a beak. They are yellowish and have hairs. The seeds are smooth.

Edible Uses

The roots and buds of young plants are eaten raw, and shoots are also consumed.

Traditional Uses

The roots and buds of young plants are eaten raw.

This uses section is brief — help expand it

Distribution

It grows in subtropical to warm temperate climates. It needs well drained soils. It can tolerate light frosts.

Where It Grows

Australia*,

Cultivation

Plants can be grown from seed or cuttings.

Production

Young plants are fast growing.

Notes

There are about 220 Hibiscus species.

Synonyms

Abelmoschus divaricatus Walp.Hibiscus divaricatus var. lutea Hochr.Hibiscus magnificus F. Muell.

References (7)

  • Bodkin, F., 1991, Encyclopedia Botanica. Cornstalk publishing, p 557
  • Cooper, W. and Cooper, W., 2004, Fruits of the Australian Tropical Rainforest. Nokomis Editions, Victoria, Australia. p 277
  • Elliot, W.R., & Jones, D.L., 1990, Encyclopedia of Australian Plants suitable for cultivation. Vol 5. Lothian. p 356
  • IRVINE,
  • Lim, T. K., 2015, Edible Medicinal and Non Medicinal Plants. Volume 9, Modified Stems, Roots, Bulbs. Springer p 46
Show all 7 references
  • Lord, E.E., & Willis, J.H., 1999, Shrubs and Trees for Australian gardens. Lothian. p 174
  • Melzer, R. & Plumb, J., 2011, Plants of Capricornia. Belgamba, Rockhampton. p 168

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