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Hibiscus poeppigii

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Hibiscus poeppigii
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Eudicots
Clade: Rosids
Order: Malvales
Family: Malvaceae
Genus: Hibiscus
Species:
H. poeppigii
Binomial name
Hibiscus poeppigii
(Spreng.) Garcke[1]
Synonyms[1]
List
    • Achania floridana (Nutt.) Raf.
    • Achania poeppigii Spreng.
    • Hibiscus bancroftianus Macfad.
    • Hibiscus floridanus Shuttlew.
    • Hibiscus floridanus Shuttlew. ex A.Gray
    • Hibiscus macleayanus Bancr.
    • Hibiscus macleayanus Bancr. ex Macfad.
    • Hibiscus truncatus A.Rich.
    • Malache poeppigii (Spreng.) Kuntze
    • Malvaviscus floridanus Nutt.
    • Malvaviscus poeppigii (Spreng.) G.Don
    • Pavonia poeppigii (Spreng.) Schltdl.
    • Pavonia poeppigii (Spreng.) Steud.

Hibiscus poeppigii, formerly Achania poeppigii, is a species of evergreen herbaceous perennial flowering plant in the genus Hibiscus commonly called the poeppig's rosemallow or fairy hibiscus.[2]

Etymology

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Hibiscus poeppigii is named after Eduard Friedrich Poeppig, a German botanist who was active in the 19th century.[3]

Distribution

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Hibiscus poeppigii is native to the Americas, found in Monroe and Miami-Dade counties in Florida, Mexico, the West Indies, and Guatemala.[4] It is commonly found in wetland areas and alongside riverbanks.[5]

Characteristics

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Hibiscus poeppigii can typically grow to about 3-7 feet (1-2 meters), the leaves are large, and frequently have lobed or serrated edges. Flowers can measure up to 15 centimeters or 6 inches across. It has five petals that can be soft pink to deep red. The yellow stamens act as a pollinator attractor.[5] It prefers morning sun, with some hot afternoon shade. Its blooms are only open for a day. Although resistant to the cold, below 40°F (4.4°C), it is no longer cold-tolerant.[6] It needs full sun or partial shade.[7]

Ecology

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Hibiscus poeppigii is a vital part of its ecosystem, being a source of nectar for numerous insects like bees and butterflies. It also provides food and shelter for birds and small mammals.[5]

Soil

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Hibiscus poeppigii thrives in warm and humid environments. It prefers soil that is well-drained and fertile, rich in organic matter. It is commonly found in riparian zones where water is frequent. It can tolerate drought briefly, making it resilient in suitable climates.[5]

Pests & Diseases

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Hibiscus poeppigii is vulnerable to bugs like aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. It is also vulnerable to diseases, primarily powdery mildew in humid conditions.[5]

Human Uses

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Hibiscus poeppigii is typically used for medicinal purposes in indigenous tribes for its anti-inflammatory purposes.[5]

References

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  1. ^ a b "Hibiscus poeppigii (Spreng.) Garcke". Global Biodiversity Information Facility. Retrieved 14 July 2025.
  2. ^ "Florida Native Plant Society (FNPS)". www.fnps.org. Retrieved 2025-07-14.
  3. ^ "Sabal minor - Volume 24, Number 3" (PDF). Florida Native Plant Society. Nov 2022 – Jan 2023. Retrieved 14 July 2025.
  4. ^ "IRC - Natives for Your Neighborhood". www.regionalconservation.org. Retrieved 2025-07-14.
  5. ^ a b c d e f "Poeppig's Rosemallow (Hibiscus poeppigii) - Botanical Realm". www.botanicalrealm.com. 2024-10-18. Retrieved 2025-07-14.
  6. ^ "Poeppig's Hibiscus". THE NECTARY. Retrieved 2025-07-14.
  7. ^ "Plant database entry for Fairy Hibiscus (Hibiscus poeppigii) with 8 images, one comment, and 25 data details". garden.org. Retrieved 2025-07-14.