Hibiscus vitifolius, the grape-leaved mallow or tropical rose mallow, is a species of flowering plant in the family Malvaceae.[2] It is native to the seasonally dry Old World tropics and subtropics, and has been introduced to most of the islands of the Caribbean.[1] A perennial herb reaching 2 m (6 ft) and becoming woody at maturity, it is found in a wide variety of habitats, and is a weed of cultivation.[3] It is used locally as a source of fiber, often mixed with jute.[3]

Subtaxa

The following subspecies are accepted:[1]

  • Hibiscus vitifolius subsp. lukei Mwachala & Cheek – central Kenya
  • Hibiscus vitifolius subsp. vitifolius – entire range

References

  1. ^ a b c "Hibiscus vitifolius L." Plants of the World Online. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Retrieved 18 November 2022.
  2. ^ "Grape Leaved Mallow". flowersofindia.net. Flowers of India. 2022. Retrieved 18 November 2022. Common name: ... Tropical Fanleaf, Five-winged capsule rose-mallow
  3. ^ a b Fern, Ken (20 July 2022). "Useful Tropical Plants Hibiscus vitifolius". tropical.theferns.info. Tropical Plants Database. Retrieved 18 November 2022.