Hibiscus Scavenger Hunt
From July 21 to September 25, participate in a free scavenger hunt that will help you explore the zoo’s accredited perennial herbaceous hibiscus collection. Complete at least three of the six tasks listed below to win a prize! You’ll also be entered into a raffle for a chance to win two free tickets to an upcoming Sunset Garden Tour or a special print of hibiscus flowers at the zoo, created by staff illustrators in collaboration with zoo horticulturists.
Scavenger Hunt Rules
Find at least three:
- A hibiscus flower that is white, pink, or red
- A hibiscus flower that is two colors
- A hibiscus flower the size of your hand (Please do not touch the flowers)
- A hibiscus flower the size of your face (Please do not touch the flowers)
- A hibiscus plant named after a person
- A hibiscus plant named after a beverage
Take a photo of the flower or write down details of its location. Then, report to the Member Center with your answers and collect your prize.
To make sure everyone can enjoy the flowers, please do not take, touch, or damage any plants.
Hibiscus Hunting Tips
- Hibiscus flowers are large, dramatic, funnel-shaped flowers with five petals.
- They have a prominent pistil (female reproductive organ) and stamens (male reproductive organs) right at the center of each bloom. Look for a tubelike stalk—the pistil—with brush-like stamens sprouting outward along its upper length. See the top of the page for an example, or check out our website.
- When searching for a hibiscus with multiple colors, look to see if a flower has a center that’s differently colored than the outer petals. The center is called the “eye.”
- Each plant in the zoo’s hibiscus collection has a nameplate which lists its common name and scientific name. Look at the ground near the base of the plant to locate it.
- To view specific locations, check out the Perennial Herbaceous Hibiscus Collection Garden Explorer tour.
