Hibiscus rosa-sinensis or Bunga Raya in Malay, is the national flower of Malaysia. On 28 July 1960, it was declared by the government of Malaysia that the hibiscus would be the national flower.

The word bunga in Malay means “flower”, whilst raya in Malay means “big” or “grand”. The hibiscus is literally known as the “big flower” in Malay. The red color of the petals symbolizes the courage, life, and rapid growth of the Malaysian. The five petals represent the five National Principles of Malaysia. The flower can be found imprinted on the notes and coins of the Malaysian ringgit.

Hibiscus flower preparations are widely used for hair care. The flowers are edible and are used in salads in the Pacific islands. The flowers are used in parts of India to shine shoes.

It is also a pH indicator. China rose indicator turns acidic solutions to magenta/dark pink and basic solutions to green. It is also used for the worship of Goddess Devi. The red variety takes an important part in tantra. In Malay, these flowers are called “kembang sepatu”, which literally means “shoe flower”.

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis is considered to have a number of medical uses. An extract from the flowers of has been shown to function as an effective sun screen by absorbing ultraviolet radiation