No flower can live without sunshine, but the Chinese hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis) is particularly sensitive. This trumpet-shaped flower in vivid red requires eight hours of sunshine every day. It can bloom all year round as long as sunshine is ample and the temperature is above 10 degrees Celsius.

Chinese hibiscus is believed to have originated in China and is now widely planted in tropical and subtropical regions. The Latin term rosa-sinensis is its scientific name meaning "rose of China," though the plant is not closely linked with the rose. 

As the national flower of Malaysia, Chinese hibiscus symbolizes courage and life. The flowers are great decorations for streets and courtyards. The flowers of Chinese hibiscus are edible and often used in salads in the Pacific Islands.

You can now see these red flowers in the Botanic Garden at the Horticultural Expo in Beijing.

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(Cover photo via VCG.)

(Video filmed by CGTN's Shen Hui, edited by CGTN's Zhao Ying)

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