A17 THE MANDRINETTE (Hibiscus fragilis) Malvaceae family
Hibiscus fragilis, also known as The Mandrinette, is a critically endangered species of hibiscus that is native to the islands of Mauritius and Rodrigues in the Indian Ocean. It is threatened by habitat loss, invasive plants, and hybridization. Only 46 mature individuals remain in the wild, and conservation efforts are underway to propagate and reintroduce this rare and beautiful plant.
- An evergreen shrub up to 3 meters tall
- Produces large, showy flowers with five bright pink to carmine red petals
- Adapted to dry habitats and prefers steep slopes with rocky soils