Hibiscus & Malvaceae: Pavonia lasiopetalaHibiscus malvaceae

• Hibiscus and other Malvaceae •

CULTIVATION • CONSERVATION • EDUCATION

Hibiscus and other Malvaceae: The genus Hibiscus is part of the Malvaceae, a taxonomic family that comprises thousands of species. Some members of this family possess considerable economic value, such as some Gossypium species (Cotton), while others are used as food sources, such as Abelmoschus esculentus (Okra), and Hibiscus sabdariffa (Roselle), used in jams and teas. Some species are used as fiber sources for jute and rope making, like Hibiscus cannabinus (Kenaf), and various Corchorus species (Jute). From times past (but perhaps to a lesser degree now), others supplied durable timber for woodworking, like some Talipariti and Thespesia species, and Hibiscus campylosiphon, an impressive tree from the Philippines.

Despite the undeniable value of the above-mentioned species, the worldwide fascination with the Malvaceae is credited to the unparalleled popularity of one of this family's most ornamental members, Hibiscus rosa-sinensis. Hibiscus rosa-sinensis cultivars are the result of crosses (both ancient and modern) between a limited number of species (from Lilibiscus ―a section of the genus Hibiscus containing about 10 species), the majority coming from the Mascarene Islands in the Indian Ocean and the Hawaiian Islands in the Pacific. This complex hybrid group was derived from a number of species that included most if not all of the following: Hibiscus arnottianus, Hibiscus boryanus, Hibiscus denisonii, Hibiscus fragilis, Hibiscus genevii, Hibiscus kokio, Hibiscus liliiflorus, Hibiscus schizopetalus, and Hibiscus storckii. Sadly, nearly all of these (as well as numerous other Malvaceae species) are now considered extinct or facing extinction in their natural habitats. For additional information on Hibiscus rosa-sinensis cultivars, go to the Hibiscus rosa-sinensis page.

The biological diversity (biodiversity) of our planet is rapidly decreasing in great part due to the direct and indirect consequences of human activity. Ironically, it is also through human activity and intervention that threatened and endangered species are offered their best chances for survival. Thankfully, in recent years, there has been increasing awareness regarding the profound importance of earth's biodiversity linked with the critically urgent necessity for human action to safeguard it. In the Biblical book of Genesis, we read "and the Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to tend and guard and keep it", (Gen 2:15), conferring on humankind a role as Earth's primary caretaker. This 'tending, guarding and keeping' is best defined as having responsibility for the care and protection of the earth (stewardship), and affirms our commission for the wellbeing of this planet's vast community of life. Ultimately, stewardship of the earth, and conservation of its ecosystems is the responsibility of all people, not merely that of national governments.

The main strategies for conserving species are commonly referred to as ex situ conservation (out of the natural habitat) and in situ conservation (within the natural habitat). Ex situ conservation is accomplished through the efforts of botanical gardens, educational institutions, private gardens, and even seed banks. Although ex situ conservation is regarded as complementary to in situ conservation, in some situations it is the only option, ―the last resort when in situ conservation is no longer possible due to habitat loss and destruction. Some of the plants presented on these pages have suffered that fate and are currently classified as extinct, threatened or endangered in their natural habitats. In order to ensure their continued survival, an applied approach of 'cultivation, conservation and education' must be promoted. It is for this purpose that the entries found on this site are offered. Your feedback is greatly appreciated, especially in regard to errors.

Concerning the Historical References listed throughout these pages, please keep in mind that portions of the infomation presented may be outdated or incorrect. In addition, any dietary or medical information should be regarded as anecdotal. These references are included simply because they offer a glimpse of the horticultural history that is attached to many of these extraordinary plants. ―GB

Monday, April 13, 2009

Pavonia lasiopetala

Pavonia lasiopetala | Malva de monte, Native Rock Rose, Rose pavonia, Rosemallow, Texas Rock Rose, Wright Pavonia

Previously known as Pavonia wrightii, Malache lasiopetala. Pavonia lasiopetala is a drought tolerant Texas native with shrubby growth up to 1m. It has become a popular garden plant throughout Texas, but its native range is south, central or west Texas, from the Edwards Plateau, the Rio Grande Plains into Mexico, in dry, rocky and calcareous soils.

The Texas Rock Rose’s popularity is no doubt due to its long bloom period and versatility; it grows well in full sun or half shade, a variety of soils, and very dry to regularly irrigated conditions. However, the most striking feature of this plant is the small pink to rose colored flowers, usually 2.5cm in diameter. Opening early in the morning, the blooms usually close by mid-late afternoon, often blooming from March through November. This is a shrub-like perennial that can get woody at the base; to keep this plant in bloom and to prevent legginess it can be trimmed back throughout the growing season. Texas Rock Rose generally lives 3-6 years, but self sows freely and can be easily propagated by seed or softwood cuttings.

Historical Reference: Charles Wright. As we go to press the telegraph announces the death of this eminent botanist, which occurred on his farm at Weathers- field, Connecticut, on the i ith of August, in his seventy-fourth year. He was found dead in his barn. Mr. Wright was one of the earliest of what might be termed the modern race of enthusiastic collectors along our Mexican borders, who have done so much to make the flora of that section known to us. His name must be familiar to nearly all plant-lovers in some one plant or another that has been named for him. As we pen these remarks two pretty things —Pavonia Wrightii and Scutellaria Wrightii—are blooming before us, mementoes of the earnest labors amidst difficulties and danger modern explorers are mostly exempt from, but which beset the early wanderers over our continent. Since "our time," Mr. Wright has been somewhat retired, and the writer never had the pleasure but of one brief introduction to him. But we shall no doubt have a full tribute to his life and eminent services from his co-laborers at Cambridge in due season.

   The Gardener's monthly and horticulturist
   Thomas Meehan
   Published by Charles H. Marot, 1885

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• Hibiscus and other Malvaceae •

Monday, April 13, 2009

Pavonia lasiopetala

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