Description
Hibiscus sabdariffa var. sabdariffa - also known as roselle, rozelle, sorrel, red sorrel, Jamaica sorrel, Indian sorrel, Guinea sorrel, sour-sour, Queensland jelly plant, jelly okra, lemon bush, and Florida cranberry - is a subtropical shrub in the mallow family. While the pale pink flowers are gorgeous in their own right, the fleshy red that form afterward are what is most typically dried for tea and used as food. Leaves are also edible and have a lemony flavor.
This plant has an otherworldly appearance and is a real joy to grow. It goes without saying that the homegrown calyces are far superior to anything that can be found in the marketplace, but these seem especially more floral and fruity. Makes a great addition to lemonade or a bioregional substitute for cranberries. Plants are perennial but grown as annuals in most temperate climates.
Specifications
Common Name:Hibiscus / Jamaica / Red Roselle
Scientific Name:Hibiscus sabdariffa var. sabdariffa
Description:Light pink flowers give way to deep red fleshy lemon-flavored calyxes that can be peeled for tea or eaten.
Plant Lifespan:Perennial
Cold Hardiness (F):Zone 9b (25 to 30)
Light Requirements:Full Sun (min. 6 hours a day)
Seed In:Mid-Spring
Seeding Depth:1/2 in.
Days to Sprout:5-12
Optimal Soil Temperature (F):75-85
Plant Spacing:2-3 ft.
Plant Height:3 ft.
Average Days from Seed to Harvest:100-120
