Did you know that there's a gumamela hybrid collection named after Filipino superstars?
One of the most popular flowers in the Philippines is Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, locally known as the gumamela. It is popular not only for its vibrant beauty and traditional health benefits, but this beloved flower holds a unique connection to Philippine cinema and entertainment.
In 2002, the University of the Philippines Los Baños - Institute of Plant Breeding merged botany with pop culture by introducing the "Hibiscus Celebrity Series."
This special collection of gumamela hybrids pays tribute to some of the country’s most iconic showbiz figures—Vilma Santos, the late Nora Aunor, Maricel Soriano, Sharon Cuneta, and Kris Aquino—by naming varieties in their honor.
Hibiscus rosa sinensis ‘Superstar’ that has apricot-orange petals often with gold and lavender-pink streaks is named after Nora Aunor, dubbed as the superstar of Philippine cinema and entertainment. Recognized as the National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts and known for starring in the highly acclaimed films such as Himala and The Flor Contemplacion Story.
Hibiscus rosa sinensis ‘Star for All Seasons’ is named after Vilma Santos also known the stars of all seasons for her versatility as an actress starring in films and series such as Trudis Liit, Darna, Anak, and Bata, Bata... Pa'no Ka Ginawa? The flower variety has a semi-double, powderpuff-like center cluster of ruffled petals with pink hue.
Hibiscus rosa sinensis ‘Megastar’ is named after singer-actress Sharon Cuneta also known the megastar for her OPM hits Mr. DJ and Kahit Maputi na ang Buhok Ko up to her iconic roles in films such as Bituing Walang Ningning and Madrasta. The flower variety features single or double layers of bright golden-yellow petals often accented by a red or pink center eye.
Hibiscus rosa sinensis ‘Diamond Star’ that has a white petals with a red or pink center eye is dubbed after Maricel Soriano, the diamond star known for her versatility in drama and comedy. She starred in highly acclaimed movies such as Minsan Lang Kita Iibigin, Mila, and Filipinas.
Lastly, Hibiscus rosa sinensis ‘Novastar’ is named after host, actress, and TV personality Kris Aquino, also dubbed as the queen of all media for her all-rounder ability. She starred in the iconic horror films Feng Shui and Sukob. The flower variety features orange petals that have yellow-gold streaks.
The gumamela seedlings are available at the National Seed Foundation, which is located within the IPB compound.
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