A Summer Favorite
The summer heat has settled in and what bloom symbolizes tropical weather better than the hibiscus? Perennial and annual hibiscus were plentiful at our visit last week to the Atlanta Botanical Garden.
I was enthralled with these blooms and didn't realize until we got home how many shots I actually had taken of these beauties.
These massive blooms are a summertime favorite of hummingbirds and bees. The long pistil and stamens provide easy access to the nectar.
Not only are hibiscus a great food source for pollinators, we use them medicinally and they have culinary uses as well. They can be used to help lower high blood pressure, reduce fevers and relieve coughs. It is often used as a diuretic and is high in Vitamin C and minerals.
Hibiscus tea is delicious hot or cold and has a smooth, delicious taste. Here is an easy recipe to make your own tea.
The swamp hibiscus (I think they call this the Texas Star in Texas) is a cold hardy perennial (zone 6 and above) that is native to Eastern U.S. It likes damp soil (a no brainer considering its name) and grows in sun to part sun. Mine seems to be happy in part sun. They do have some height to them. They can grow up to 10 feet tall so a location that is protected from the wind is beneficial.
Hope you are enjoying your weekend!
I was enthralled with these blooms and didn't realize until we got home how many shots I actually had taken of these beauties.
These massive blooms are a summertime favorite of hummingbirds and bees. The long pistil and stamens provide easy access to the nectar.
Not only are hibiscus a great food source for pollinators, we use them medicinally and they have culinary uses as well. They can be used to help lower high blood pressure, reduce fevers and relieve coughs. It is often used as a diuretic and is high in Vitamin C and minerals.
Hibiscus tea is delicious hot or cold and has a smooth, delicious taste. Here is an easy recipe to make your own tea.
Hibiscus Tea
Bring 4 cups of water to a boil
Add 8 large hibiscus flowers and 1-2 cinnamon sticks
Cover and allow it to steep for 15-20 minutes (note do no leave the flowers in longer than 20 minutes; it will result in a bitter tasting tea. For stronger tea add more blooms)
Strain the tea into a pitcher and add juice of a lemon, honey or sugar to taste.
Serves 4. Enjoy!
The swamp hibiscus (I think they call this the Texas Star in Texas) is a cold hardy perennial (zone 6 and above) that is native to Eastern U.S. It likes damp soil (a no brainer considering its name) and grows in sun to part sun. Mine seems to be happy in part sun. They do have some height to them. They can grow up to 10 feet tall so a location that is protected from the wind is beneficial.
Hope you are enjoying your weekend!
~ Karin
