Pronunciation: [slˈiːpɪŋ hˈɪbɪskəs] (IPA) 
The correct spelling of the word "sleeping hibiscus" is /ˈsliːpɪŋ hɪˈbɪskəs/. The initial sound is the "sl" blend, followed by a long "e" sound and then the "p" sound. The "i" in "hibiscus" is pronounced with a short "i" sound and the stress falls on the second syllable. The final sound is the "s" sound. "Sleeping hibiscus" refers to a hibiscus flower that closes its petals at night, resembling a sleeping state.
The term "sleeping hibiscus" refers to a specific phenomenon observed in certain species of hibiscus plants, scientifically known as the Hibiscus rosa-sinensis. This unique feature involves a noticeable conformational change in the appearance of the plant's flowers during the course of the day.
A hibiscus flower is said to exhibit the "sleeping hibiscus" characteristic if its appearance alters significantly as a result of the diurnal cycle. In the morning, when the flower first blooms, it is lively, vibrant, and fully open, displaying its full array of colorful petals and stamens. However, as the day progresses, the flower gradually transforms, seemingly "sleeping" or closing itself up. The petals begin to fold inward or droop, while the stamens move closer together, creating a more compact and less prominent appearance. By the evening or during the night, the flower may appear completely closed, resembling a bud or making it seemingly nonexistent to a casual observer.
This fascinating behavior is thought to be an evolutionary adaptation to conserve energy and protect the reproductive structures of the plant, such as the pollen and stigma, from potential damage caused by external factors like heat, wind, or excessive sunlight. The closing action also serves as a defense mechanism, shielding the delicate interior parts from undesired visitors, such as insects or nocturnal animals. The hibiscus flower resumes its open and vibrant form the following morning, as a response to the renewed availability of sunlight.
Overall, the term "sleeping hibiscus" captures the temporary transformation and adaptation of hibiscus flowers throughout the day, displaying a remarkable ability to modulate their appearance based on environmental conditions.
