The genus is quite large, comprising several hundred species that are native to warm temperate, subtropical and tropical regions throughout the world.

The genus includes both annual and perennial herbaceous plants, as well as woody shrubs and small trees.

[4] A tea made from the flowers of Hibiscus sabdariffa is known by many names around the world and is served both hot and cold.

[7] They are trumpet-shaped, with five or more petals, colour from white to pink, red, blue, orange, peach,[8] yellow or purple,[9] and from 4–18 cm broad.

[citation needed] The ropes on the missionary ship Messenger of Peace were made of fibres from hibiscus trees.

[19] The tea made of the calyces of Hibiscus sabdariffa is known by many names in many countries around the world and is served both hot and cold.

In Egypt and Sudan, hibiscus tea is known as karkadé (كركديه), and is served as both a hot and a cold drink.

Fresh juices, ice teas and syrups made of the Hibiscus flower are famous refreshments among Sri Lankans.

Known as labog in the Visayan area (or labuag/sapinit in Tagalog), the species is an ingredient in cooking native chicken soup.

[27][28][29] Due to the documented adverse effects in animal studies and the reported pharmacological properties, the H. sabdariffa and H. × rosa-sinensis are not recommended for use during pregnancy.

In healthy human volunteers, the H. sabdariffa extract was found to reduce the excretion of diclofenac upon co-administration.

[30] Additionally, co-administration of Karkade (H. sabdariffa), a common Sudanese beverage, was found to reduce chloroquine bioavailability.

[citation needed] The pink hibiscus flower has its origins in Asia and the Pacific Islands, where it has served as a symbol of beauty, femininity, and young love.

It is commonly associated with the Hawaiian culture and the Aloha spirit, which celebrates love, happiness, and peace.

Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie named her first novel Purple Hibiscus after the delicate flower.

[citation needed] A coastal area in Auckland, New Zealand is known as the Hibiscus Coast, named after the non-native flower due to its associations with beach and holiday atmospheres.