About Hibiscus splendens Fraser ex Graham
Hibiscus splendens Fraser ex Graham is a bush or small tree that grows up to 6 metres tall, with a trunk up to 7 cm in diameter. Its cylindrical trunk is covered in sharp prickles, and this prickly covering is found on most of the rest of the plant as well. Leaves are 7 to 20 cm long, toothed, heart-shaped with a fine point at the tip. They are simple, or have three to five lobes, and arranged alternately along stems. The midrib and lateral leaf veins are visible on both sides of the leaf. This species produces spectacular pink flowers around 7 cm long, which bloom from October to December. Its species epithet "splendens" refers to the beauty of these flowers. The fruit of Hibiscus splendens is an egg-shaped capsule covered in hairs. The capsule holds five seed chambers, which contain pyramid-shaped dark seeds 3 to 4 mm long. The hairs on the fruit capsules can cause severe skin irritation, so the plant should be handled with care. Fruit matures between December and February. This species acts as a rainforest regeneration plant. Germinating its seeds is easy, and cuttings root successfully. It is grown as an attractive garden plant.
