Heavenly Hibiscus

 

Looking out toward the back yard of my daughter and son-in-law's home, I can see a new breathtaking pink hibiscus plant.

Its huge flowers are pink, my favorite color.

 

Not only are hibiscus flowers incredibly beautiful, reading about them becomes quite fascinating.

Most of the information in this post, about this plant, comes from a variety of sources on the Internet so many thanks to the websites that provide information.

 Hibiscus is a perennial so it comes back year after year. It requires full sun and daily watering.

Some say it's a native of Asia.  It has, indeed, been cultivated in China, Japan, and the Pacific Islands.

 Its massive flowers bloom and often last just one day.  

A potted hibiscus, however, if well cared for, can live up to 40 years. 

It is the national flower of Malaysia where it is called the "Queen of Flowers."

 

It's also the state flower of Hawaii and symbolizes "hospitality, friendship, the beauty of the islands."

Surprisingly, there are more than 200 species of hibiscus which is known to be a natural remedy for many kinds of ailments.

 For years now, I have been drinking deep red hibiscus tea, without sugar, to lower blood pressure. It's tangy and, to my taste, at least, quite delicious. And yes, it lowers blood pressure readings every time I drink it.

However, it's also said to promote weight loss, help end constipation, lower bad cholesterol, and help with colds. Who knew?

Coffee grounds as well as crushed banana peels and tea grounds, mixed with soil, will make hibiscus plants happy.

 One other welcome fact about hibiscus plants is that humming birds are attracted to the flowers.

 Personally, just looking at those gorgeous dessert-plate sized pink blooms makes me smile and lifts my spirit higher than a kite.

HAVE YOU EVER HAD A HIBISCUS PLANT?