Cotton Rose, Dixie rosemallow

Hibiscus mutabilis

Physical Characteristics

Hibiscus mutabilis is a deciduous Shrub growing to 3 m (9ft) by 3 m (9ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8 and is frost tender. It is in flower from August to October, and the seeds ripen from September to November. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China, Japan.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Root Edible Uses: Rutin Leaves[177]. The leaves contain rutin, but the report does not say what quantity[218]. Root - it is edible but very fibrousy[144]. Mucilaginous, without very much flavour[144].

Medicinal Uses

Antiphlogistic Demulcent Depurative Expectorant Febrifuge The leaves are anodyne, antidotal, demulcent, expectorant and refrigerant[218]. With the flowers, they are applied to burns, swellings and other skin problems[147, 218, 240]. The flowers are antiphlogistic, depurative, febrifuge, pulmonary and stimulant[147, 240]. A decoction is used in the treatment of lung ailments[218, 240].

Known Hazards

None known