Uses of 16 species of Hibiscus, section Furcaria DC, are discussed, with particular reference to kenaf (H. cannabinus L.) and roselle (H. sabdariffa L.), the two most important species grown commercially as fiber plants. Other uses of this versatile group include use as ornamentals and employment of various plant parts as food, medicine, wood for musical instruments, and in superstitious rites. Comparative morphology of certain vegetative and floral parts of 11 species and seeds of 12 species is discussed. Reaction of plants of 11 species to root-knot nematodes is reported. Ratings varied from highly susceptible to highly resistant; kenaf was more susceptible to nematodes than the other 10 species. Suggested origins, distribution, and genetic relationships of kenaf, roselle, and related species are treated.