A Note on the Flower:
Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, "Rose of China" is believed to be a native of Southern China, having grown there since the 13th century.
Chinese porcelain was found to be decorated with Hibiscus flowers dating back to the Ming Dynasty. Ancient Chinese tapestries also depict the flower.
A black dye was produced from the flowers and used as hair dye. The flowers are edible and used in salads in the Pacific Islands. Hibiscus tea is highly regarded for it's medicinal properties.
Hibiscus commonly symbolizes delicate beauty.
In the Japanese language of flowers, hanakotoba, the hibiscus means “gentle”.