Changeable Rose-mallow

Hibiscus mutabilis

Hibiscus mutabilis, a deciduous shrub native to East Asia, is known for its unique ability to change color from pink to red as it matures. Traditionally, there are no recorded uses of this plant in any specific medical or cultural practices. Scientifically, studies have shown that metabolomics, transcriptomics, and microbial community analysis reveal a complex regulatory network influencing the flower's dynamic color change. Additionally, research indicates that adding linalool or β-ionone can deter honeybee visits while attracting thrips, suggesting a push-pull strategy for pollination. Another study found that seven woody plant species, including Hibiscus mutabilis, could survive in simulated vertical-flow constructed wetlands, indicating potential ecological applications. The plant has shown no major safety issues or recorded drug interactions, making it generally safe to use without significant concerns.

At a glance
Best evidence
D
Cautions

Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.

What the science says

  • Seven woody plant species, including Hibiscus mutabilis, could survive in simulated vertical-flow constructed wetlands. D PMID
  • This study presents upcycled TPEE films integrated with spiropyran derivatives that exhibit dynamic anticounterfeiting and photoswitchable conductivity properties. D PMID
  • This study reveals that metabolomics, transcriptomics, and microbial community analysis together show a multidimensional regulatory network influencing the dynamic color change in Hibiscus mutabilis. D PMID
  • Hibiscus mutabilis flowers with added linalool or β-ionone deterred honeybee visits while attracting thrips, illustrating a push-pull strategy. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Changeable Rose-mallow?

Changeable Rose-mallow (Hibiscus mutabilis) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.

What does the scientific evidence say about Changeable Rose-mallow?

4 sourced findings are recorded for Changeable Rose-mallow; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Seven woody plant species, including Hibiscus mutabilis, could survive in simulated vertical-flow constructed wetlands.

How strong is the evidence for Changeable Rose-mallow?

The strongest finding for Changeable Rose-mallow carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Changeable Rose-mallow safe? What are the side effects?

No major safety issues are recorded for Changeable Rose-mallow in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.

Does Changeable Rose-mallow interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for Changeable Rose-mallow in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

What are the common names of Changeable Rose-mallow?

Changeable Rose-mallow is also known as: Caractère des dames.

Is Changeable Rose-mallow a proven treatment?

No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.

Sources

  1. T2 Hibiscus Mutabilis-Inspired Upcycled TPEE Films with Orthogonal Wavelength-Controlled Spiropyrans for Dynamic Anticounterfeiting and Photoswitchable Conductivity. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Applicability of different woody plant species to vertical flow constructed wetland. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Floral fragrance in sweet osmanthus majorly repels pollen feeders. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Integrating multi-omics and epiphytic microbial communities to decipher the spatiotemporal dynamics of flower color dynamic regulation in Hibiscus mutabilis. literature abstract metadata