Hibiscus schizopetalus (Dyer) Hook. f. 1880, commonly called Japanese Lantern, Chinese Lantern, Coral Hibiscus, Skeleton Hibiscus or Fringed Hibiscus, is a tropical shrub, native to the East African countries Kenya, Tanzania and Mozambique.

The rapidly growing Japanese Lantern Hibiscus can reach heights up to about 3 meters and flowers sporadically all year long. As flowers grow on new wood it`s recommended to prune the Hibiscus plant regularly. Flowers attract butterflies and humming birds. The Japanese Lantern Hibiscus requires warm to hot temperatures and a sunny or semi-shady location. The Skeleton Hibiscus isn`t hardy and nowadays widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in tropical and subtropical gardens for its delicate red flowers, which are reminescent of parachutes or chandeliers.

Flower Photography © Orchids Flowers.com
Image. Japanese Lantern (Hibiscus schizopetalus),
Background: Spanish moss (Tillandsia usneoides)