From Wikipedia —

Hibiscus (pronounced /hɨˈbɪskəs/ or /haɪˈbɪskəs/ is a genus of flowering plants in the mallow family, Malvaceae. It is quite large, containing about 200–220 species that are native to warm-temperate, subtropical and tropical regions throughout the world. Member species are often noted for their showy flowers and are commonly known as hibiscus or sorrel or less widely as rosemallow or flor de Jamaica. The genus includes both annual and perennial herbaceous plants, as well as woody shrubs and small trees. The generic name is derived from the Greek word ἱβίσκος (hibískos), which was the name Pedanius Dioscorides (ca. 40-90) gave to Althaea officinalis. Read the entire article

You can see some fine examples in the side lot of the PHCA at 3062 Brereton St and at Maly Park on the corner of Herron and Dobson.

[EDIT]
Did you know the Rose of Sharon is a variety of Hibiscus? Staffski is so unschooled in the subject of Flora.

[EDIT 2]
You can make tea from Hibiscus blooms. This was just posted to our Facebook —

Just like regular -tea leaves- but you need to dry the flowers well for that….. on hot water you put the dry flowers to brew. The ‘brew’ is quite strong (like a deep-wine color). Save it and put it away. Then, on a pitcher of cold water, put part of the concentrated brew and sugar-to-taste!

You can buy dry Hibiscus flowers at Reynas on the Strip District. In Mexico we call it ‘Jamaica’ .. and it is delish to drink!

Here is a recipe

Courtesy of Lucia Aguirre