THE HIBISCUS FLOWER

We have lots of hibiscus flowers growing in Fiji.  A lot of the resorts use them for decorations.  THANKS Wanda for your recipe on Elderberry flower syrup.  Here is recipe for Hibiscus syrup and a little "Reproductive" info on the Hibiscus flower!!!!!

The appearance of hibiscus flowers varies among over 200 species, but the blossoms of the plants are similar.  The shape of the stamens and pistils, or the male and female organs, is a common feature in all the hibiscus species.  The hibiscus blossoms contain typical blossom structures, but they have unusual features as well, including a long staminal column

Calyx

At the bottom of every hibiscus bud is a green structure at the top of the stem called the calyx. The bud grows from this structure. It is a tough part of the flower because it houses the young bud. The pointed ends of the calyx are called sepals.

Corolla

As the hibiscus begins to bloom, the petals unfurl.  Every flower has multiple petals, which differ in color depending on the species.  The corolla is the colorful section that attracts animals and insects.  The corolla has two different parts, the petals and corolla lobes.  This attraction helps ensure the pollination of the flower.

Female Parts:

The ovary and other female parts of the slower lie in the main structure called the pistil, which is a long tubular organ.  The stigma, located at the top of the pistil, is where pollen is collected.  In the middle is the style, the section that the pollen travels to reach the ovary.  The ovary lies at the bottom of the pistil.  In some flowers there are several ovaries, but the hibiscus has just one.  The overt is a superior ovary, meaning the petals are located under the ovary.

Male Parts:

The male part of the flower are responsible for producing pollen.  anthers, two tube-shaped objects that release the pollen, sit on a long, thin type called a filament.  Together, these organs make up the male part of the flower known as the stamen.  Some flowers have a few stamens, but hibiscus flower have hundreds!!

1. • Hibiscus Syrup:
     
     
     

     Hibiscus Flowers - 5 or more

     4 Cups of water

     1 inch ginger, finely grated

     Zest of 1 lemon

     1 Cup sugar

     Pinch of salt

     
     Mix all ingredients and bring to a boil
     Once it boils, decrease heat to medium and let simmer for 10 min.
     Turn off heat, cover with lid and let it steep for 5 min.
     Strain and store in airtight bottle in refrigerator.
     Use over ice and water as a cold drink/ over pancakes.