I don’t know about anyone else – but I’ve had enough of winter this year. I’m getting tired of the snow and gray skies. In case anyone else is ready for something bright and tropical, I decided to share a few of the hibiscus photos I’ve taken in the past few months.

I just love hibiscus flowers. The bright colors always remind me of summer.

Hibiscus are members of the Mallow family (Malvaceae family). They are an ornamental tropical plant native to East Asia. The sepals of Hibiscus sabdariffa are often used in herbal teas (Thanks to @rachidH on Twitter for the additional info). In the language of flowers, hibiscus flowers symbolize delicate beauty.

All of these flowers are hibiscus rosa -sinensis, which is not only the state flower of Hawaii, but also the national flower of Malaysia.

I love the bright orange color of the Caleb Hibiscus. There aren’t many flowers in this shade of orange.

Caleb Hibiscus (c) 2010 Patty Hankins

I’ve photographed the Jason Hibiscus several times before. Each time I see one, I just have to smile. I love the combination of yellow, red and soft pink in this flower.

Jason Hibiscus (c) 2010 Patty Hankins

Painted Lady Hibiscus are a wonderful shade of pink.

Painted Lady Hibiscus (c) 2009 Patty Hankins

The shape of the petals and the length of the pistil and stamens of the Snow Queen Hibiscus really caught my eye.

(c) 2010 Patty Hankins

And finally a hibiscus that I haven’t been able to identify the variety. I love the shades of pink and shape of this flower. Does anyone happen to know what it is?

(c) 2010 Patty Hankins