Queensland-sorrel (Hibiscus heterophyllus, Jard. Malmaison 2: ad t. 103. 1805)

Family: Malvaceae

Author: Vent.

Bibliography: Jard. Malmaison 2: ad t. 103. 1805

Year: 1805

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Hibiscus

Vegetable: False

Observations: NW. & E. Australia

Description

The Queensland-sorrel, known scientifically as Hibiscus heterophyllus, is a remarkable plant native to the northwestern and eastern regions of Australia. Belonging to the family Malvaceae, this species is noted for its striking and distinctive features that make it a notable member within its native habitat.

Hibiscus heterophyllus is appreciated for its vibrant and large flowers, which can display a rich spectrum of colors ranging from white to varying shades of pink and yellow. These blooms are not only a visual delight but also play a significant role in attracting pollinators, thereby contributing to the ecological balance in its natural surroundings.

The plant exhibits a diverse range of leaf shapes, a characteristic alluded to in its scientific name “heterophyllus”. This variability in foliage adds to its aesthetic appeal and highlights the plant’s adaptability to different environmental conditions within its distribution range in Australia.

As a member of the Malvaceae family, the Queensland-sorrel shares common traits with other hibiscus species, including the presence of a sturdy, woody stem and a predisposition for rapid growth under suitable conditions. This resilience and robust nature make it a favored choice for gardeners and horticulturists aiming to introduce a touch of Australian flora to their landscapes.

Documented as early as 1805 in “Jard. Malmaison,” courtesy of the author Vent., Hibiscus heterophyllus has garnered attention for over two centuries, signifying its longstanding importance and admiration within botanical studies. The plant’s enduring appeal stems not only from its stunning floral display but also from its practical utility in traditional and contemporary horticulture.

Overall, the Queensland-sorrel embodies the unique botanical richness of Australia, representing both the aesthetic beauty and ecological significance of the continent’s flora. Cultivating Hibiscus heterophyllus offers an opportunity to appreciate and conserve a species that vividly illustrates the diversity of plant life in its native habitats.

Common Names

En: Queensland-sorrel, Green kurrajong, Native rosella, Sorreltree

Synonyms

• Hibiscus grandiflorus (Salisb.)
• Hibiscus heterophyllus var. genuinus (Hochr.)
• Hibiscus heterophyllus var. margeriae (Domin)
• Hibiscus heterophyllus var. hispidifolia (F.Muell.)
• Hibiscus heterophyllus var. discolor (Domin)
• Hibiscus heterophyllus var. flaviflorus (F.Muell.)
• Hibiscus divaricatus var. luteus (Hochr.)
• Hibiscus heterophyllus var. leefei (Hochr.)
• Hibiscus heterophyllus subsp. luteus ((Hochr.) F.D.Wilson)
• Hibiscus fitzgeraldii (F.Muell.)
• Hibiscus flabellatus (Desf.)
• Hibiscus margeriae (A.Cunn. ex Benth.)

Distribution

• New South Wales (native)
• Queensland (native)
• Western Australia (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Sep 7, 2022 by Sakkie Janse van Rensburg (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 5, 2022 by Dawn Hendrick (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 15, 2020 by Jian Chen (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 2, 2022 by Kath Little (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 2, 2020 by Lorenzo (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Apr 17, 2022 by Sakkie Janse van Rensburg (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 2, 2022 by Kath Little (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 27, 2022 by f v (cc-by-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/7851782)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:560342-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Hibiscus heterophyllus Vent.)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/7279090)

Specifications

Growth