Flower Of An Hour

Hibiscus trionum

Physical Characteristics

Hibiscus trionum is a ANNUAL/PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft) by 0.3 m (1ft in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10 and is frost tender. It is in flower from July to August, and the seeds ripen from August to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife. 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 dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Arid old world tropics. Naturalized in S.E. Europe[50].

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Root Shoots Edible Uses: Young leaves and young shoots - raw or cooked[177, 179]. Root - it is edible but very fibrousy[144]. Mucilaginous, without very much flavour[144].

Medicinal Uses

Diuretic Skin Stomachic The flowers are diuretic[240]. They are used in the treatment of itch and painful skin diseases[240]. The dried leaves are said to be stomachic[240].

Known Hazards

None known