Flower focus: All about Hibiscus, our National flower

Beautiful blossoming hibiscus flowers never fail to charm and capture the hearts of people. In particular, the bright red hibiscus rosa-sinesis, or more commonly known as Bunga Raya, is a symbol of courage, vitality and unity in Malaysia.

Here, we explore all about the hibiscus flower, some special uses of the plant, and its significance as the national flower of Malaysia.

Bunga raya of the people

Hibiscus was chosen to be the national flower after a nationwide search for representative blooms. After careful consideration, then Prime Minister Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj declared hibiscus, or more specifically its subspecies Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, as the national flower on 28 July, 1960.

The vibrant colours of the flower made it stand out. It also symbolised the courage and vitality of the people. The five conspicuous petals of the flower also fit well with the five principles of the country’s national principles (or Rukun Negara). 

Apart from these reasons, the flower was commonly seen all over the country, blooming all day long and decorating the fences of many households.

Commonly known locally as Bunga Raya, with raya meaning celebratory or grand, the flower literally means ‘celebratory flower’, to reflect the celebration of unity in our multicultural nation.

Hibiscus and nature

The bright and pretty hibiscus loves warmth and doesn’t tolerate temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius. So that’s pretty much Malaysia(n), basically.

Hibiscus plants can grow up to 16 feet (5 meters) tall, and some as wide as 10 feet (3 meters). Depending on its environment, this will look like an evergreen bush or small tree.

Interestingly, the hibiscus flower is also really popular with insects like bees and butterflies. Their pollen is said to be exceptionally good for them. Other nectarivore birds (birds that feed on nectar), including hummingbirds, have also been known to regularly feed on hibiscus nectar.

Benefits of hibiscus

Hibiscus is a popular flower choice for making tea, and the reason it makes such a strong, tart tea is because of its abundance of citric acid, tartaric acid, malic acid, and its own unique hibiscus acid (allo-hydroxycitric acid lactone). It’s made up of 15 – 30% plant acids overall, and these are good acids that help regulate the levels in the body.

Most of the benefits of hibiscus flowers come mainly in the form of its floral tea. Hibiscus tea is rich in powerful antioxidants and may help prevent bodily damage and diseases caused by the buildup of free radicals. 

Many studies have found that hibiscus tea helps in lowering high blood pressure and risks of heart disease. It also improves liver health and promotes weight loss.

Good uses for hibiscus flowers

Other than being a great floral tea, hibiscus flowers and plants have several other great uses as well. 

A paste made of hibiscus leaves and flowers, mixed with sesame oil, can be used to apply on the scalp for purposes of strengthening the hair.

Consuming a mixture made of a paste of tender flowers of hibiscus and milk is said to help control heavy bleeding in women’s menstruation. Mixing this paste with lukewarm milk then drinking it can also help in relaxing the mind and aid in a good night’s sleep. 

In China, hibiscus flowers are often used to polish leather shoes, keeping the exterior bright and glossy. This has earned the hibiscus flower the nickname of ‘shoe flower’.

Be enchanted by fresh blooms at Flower Nation

While hibiscus are better kept in pots, you can still get many other lovely flowers from your choice flower shop Malaysia that’s available as cut flowers or gorgeous bouquets. Shop for blooms for flower gifting needs conveniently at Flower Nation, the preferred online florist. 

Flower Nation is Selangor florist, carrying a wide variety of flower types and bespoke hand bouquets. Pick your blooms and have it sent with the best flower delivery Malaysia, with express same-day service available around selected regions.