Kashipala or Largeleaf Rosemallow, Hibiscus macrophyllus

Kashipala or Largeleaf Rosemallow (Hibiscus macrophyllus, Family : Malvaceae) is a medium-sized tree with large leaves and attractive flowers. The tree can reach a height of about 10 m. The young branches, leaves, inflorescence, fruits, seeds of the plant are too hairy. It goes without saying that the plant takes such protective measures to prevent insects or unwanted creatures from harming its body parts. 

The tree can be found in Indo-Malay region (Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines) as well as Northeastern India, Myanmar, Southern China. In Bangladesh, it can be found in the forests of greater Sylhet and greater Chattogram. 

Other names : Bristly-Tree Hibiscus, Large-Leaved Hibiscus, Large-Leaved Hao.

Downy and 5-9 nerved leaves are big, 16-45 cm long and 15-40 cm wide. Interestingly, its leaves and petioles are the same size. These are broadly ovate or orbicular, heart-shaped at the base, acuminate at apex. Upper surface is covered with dark brown hairs, lower with silky hairs. Foliaceous stipules 5-10 cm long and 2-4 cm wide, caduceous. 

Campanulate flowers are in terminal or axillary racemes, solitary, yellow with dark purple eye, 5-7 cm across. Pedicel 2-4 cm, petals 5, calyx 5-lobed, epicalyx lobes 10-12. It blooms in March to May. Ovoid or obovoid and hairy capsules are 3 cm long and 2 cm wide in size, dehiscent. The propagation of the plant is caused by seeds. 

Oh! There are no more seeds left to release!

The plant is used to make quality papers somewhere. the wood is light but quite strong, can be used for construction rafters, house posts and strong cordage fibers.

Several years ago, nature lovers planted two plants of the species in Dhaka's Ramna Park. And the trees bloom profusely every season. Although the presence of this wild plant is somewhat low, it is not yet endangered in Bangladesh.

Synonyms: Pariti macrophyllum, Talipariti macrophyllum, Hibiscus barbatus, Hibiscus setosus, Hibiscus vestitus, Hibiscus vulpinus, Triplochiton spathacea.