Hibiscus rosa-sinensis 'General Corteges'
This is an old variety of Hibiscus which is mentioned in garden books in the early decades of the 20th Century. The brilliant scarlet flowers are of a medium size and are produced prolifically over a long period. I have seen it used as a hedge plant and it is still recommended for use in that way today.
The variety name 'corteges' intrigues me as the singular word is usually associated with ceremonial or funeral occasions. Was this flower used as a substitute for the Flanders Poppy (the poppy wreath on a soldier's tomb), as we pause to reflect on the meaning of ANZAC day tomorrow?
Hi Ian,
ReplyDeleteMany thanks for this information. I have been growing Lone Pines for planting at local RSLs in Melbourne (Coburg and Glenroy) and will add in Hibiscus General Corteges as companion plant.....with best Lex Thomson
Thanks Lex as always for your enthusiasm and knowledge of Hibiscus
ReplyDeleteHi Ian,
ReplyDeleteHave found an earlier illustration of Hibiscus General Courtigis from Paris around late 1860s - see http://www.rhsprints.co.uk/image/678996/lambotte-p-fl-1860s-1870s-artist-hibiscus-general-courtigis
This hibiscus is very close (perhaps the same) as the 'original' Hibiscus 'rosa-sinensis' found in Polynesia and called aute or kaute. Are you still growing it? Mine died over winter but I am getting more cuttings of the green-leaved form. Have not seen the variegated form in Australia?
Hi Lex, I thought 'Psyche' was closer to the Polynesian variety with it lax growth and smaller windmill flowers . "The General" looks like it might have had a bit of human intervention as in "improving" or "selection" of a wild type.
DeleteOr by the time it arrived in Australia it has been named in a 'close enough is good enough way' Have never seen a variegated form. Thanks for the info Ian