Hibiscus is a genus of flowering plants in the mallow family, Malvaceae. The genus is quite large, comprising several hundred species that are native to warm temperate, subtropical and tropical regions throughout the world. Member species are renowned for their large, showy flowers and those species are commonly known simply as "hibiscus". The roselle hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa) used to make the tea likely originated in Africa.

A tea made from hibiscus flowers is known by many names around the world and is served both hot and cold. The beverage is known for its red colour, tart flavour, and vitamin C content. In Senegal, the drink is known as Bissap, In The Gambia, the infusion goes by the name of Wanjo, in Mali, Dabileni and in Nigeria, Tsobo. Most famously however, the tart red infusion is known as Karkadeh, or Karkady in Egypt, where it has been enjoyed since the days of the Pharaohs.

• Botanical Name:  Hibiscus sabdariffa
  
• Region: Nile Delta, Egypt
• Altitude: 1 - 30 m