Rosella

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Rosella – Plant Profile

Common Names

• Rosella
• Hibiscus
• Roselle
• Red Sorrel (Caribbean)
• Gongura (India)
• Jamaica Flower
• Florida Cranberry

Botanical Name: Hibiscus sabdariffa

Family: Malvaceae

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Description

Rosella (Hibiscus sabdariffa) is a fast-growing tropical to subtropical plant known for its striking red calyces and edible leaves. It is widely grown for culinary, herbal, and ornamental use. The plant produces hibiscus-like flowers followed by fleshy red calyces that are harvested for teas, jams, and traditional medicine.

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Features

• Fast-growing annual or short-lived perennial
• Bright red edible calyces
• Decorative hibiscus-like flowers
• Multiple uses: culinary, herbal, ornamental
• Heat tolerant and easy to grow
• Suitable for garden beds and large pots

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Height & Growth

• Height: 1.5–2.5 m (5–8 ft)
• Spread: 1–1.5 m
• Growth Habit: Upright, bushy
• Growth Rate: Fast (flowers in 3–4 months)

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Taste

• Calyces: Tart, tangy, cranberry-like flavor
• Leaves: Sour, lemony taste when young
• Flavor becomes milder when cooked or sweetened

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Culinary Uses

• Herbal tea (hibiscus tea / rosella tea)
• Jams, jellies, syrups, and sauces
• Juice, cordial, and wine
• Candied calyces
• Salads and cooked greens (young leaves)
• Curries and chutneys (especially in Asian & African cuisine)

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Herbal & Traditional Uses

• Traditionally used to support digestion
• Known for antioxidant-rich properties
• Used in herbal teas for cooling and hydration
• Commonly used to support heart health in traditional practices
• Mild diuretic properties in folk medicine

(Note: Herbal uses are traditional and not a substitute for medical advice.)

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Care Instructions

☀️ Light

• Full sun (6–8+ hours daily)

🌍 Soil

• Well-draining, fertile soil
• Slightly acidic to neutral pH

💧 Water

• Moderate watering
• Keep soil evenly moist, not waterlogged

🌡️ Climate

• Warm tropical to subtropical climates
• Frost sensitive
• Grows best in temperatures above 18°C (65°F)

✂️ Pruning

• Pinch tips early for bushier growth
• Remove dead stems after harvest

🌼 Fertilizer

• Balanced organic fertilizer every 3–4 weeks during growth

🪴 Container Growing

• Grow in large pots (20–30 L minimum)
• Ensure good drainage

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Harvesting

• Calyces are ready 2–3 weeks after flowering

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