Nice flowers on the kalanchoe...so sweet of her to do it.She must have thought its looking too empty without flowers whereas the hibiscus must be full of blooms!!Whatever atleast she is busy in the garden, that's a huge thing in itself..Wishing her the best....

I have to give it to your mother. What dear sweet soul. She wanted to make what was just a plain green shrub into a colorful display.

Times to remember and treasure. So nice that she has you there to watch over her.

Rick

Hi Pagan,

I'm glad you mentioned they're edible. I will have to try putting the petals in salad. It will certainly make an interesting presentation!

I use the petals to make hot or iced Agua di Jamaica tea with fresh ginger, lemon, orange blossoms, splenda, and a dash of vanilla ... or any combination thereof.

Just boil water, remove from heat, add ingredients to your liking (I use the petals of 10 flowers), cover, and allow to steep 20 mins. The Hibiscus initially turns the water very dark purple. When you add the lemon it turns very bright red. When heated, the petals have the consistency of aloe.

This is actually a refreshing health drink in the Caribbean. Prepackaged hibiscus tea bags can be used instead. There are a few recipes online. The petals with cinnamon lowers blood pressure.

Rick,

I call moments like these "Heavenly kisses." I am going to have that photo printed 5 x 7 and framed. It will only mean something to me ... and will always be very special.

Maria Elena

I grew the Hibiscus 'sabdariffa' for a few years and saved, dried and used the calyx's for tea. I believe they call it "Roselle". Quite nice.

Rick

Very awesome!!