Flowers of Bali - Hibiscus

The hibiscus is one of the common flowers in Bali and is often used as a symbol in Balinese culture. It is used as a decoration, an offering to the gods and even a symbol of courage!

The red hibiscus, commonly known in Bali as kembang sepatu despite not resembling a shoe, is Bali's staple flower alongside the frangipani.

This tropical flower can be found in countries along the equator such as Malaysia, where the flower is the national flower. Like all of Bali's most beautiful flowers, the red hibiscus is also used in religious ceremonies. It is believed to be a favourite of Kali, the fearsome spouse of the goddess Shiva. The flower is also used as an offering in all kinds of ceremonies as well as being used to decorate statues around temples to make them look prettier to welcome the gods and goddesses present during the ceremony.

Hibiscus is also worn by dancers, especially men, as a symbol of courage. In Tari Baris, Bali's traditional war dance, dancers wear red hibiscus flowers on their ears. The colour red is often associated with courage, as is the Indonesian flag.