Hibiscus sabdariffa

Hibiscus sabdariffa

Roselle

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Taxonomy

Common Names

RoselleSorrelRed sorrelJamaica sorrelIndian sorrelFlorida cranberry

Context

nativeRegion

Tropical Africa, widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical climates worldwide.

usdaZones

9–12 (grown as an annual elsewhere).

companionPlants

Okra, Eggplant, Peppers, Beans

culturalUses

Calyces used to make hibiscus tea (sorrel, roselle), jams, and culinary colorings; fibers from stems are also utilized.

Care

LightFull sun is best, but tolerates light partial shade.

WateringKeep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged; water more during dry periods.

SoilPrefers well-drained, sandy loam soils rich in organic matter.

FertilizerFeed monthly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season.

HumidityAverage humidity; tolerates a range but prefers moderate to high humidity.

TemperatureThrives in temperatures between 22°C-35°C (72°F-95°F); sensitive to frost.

HabitErect, bushy annual or short-lived perennial shrub.

Mature Size1.5–2.5 m tall (5–8 ft), spreading 60–120 cm (2–4 ft).

Growth RateFast-growing under optimal warm conditions.

BloomingFlowers are produced singly or in pairs, typically mid-late summer.

DormancyDies back or goes dormant with cold; grown as annual in cool climates.

Methodsseeds, stem cuttings

DifficultyEasy from seed; moderate from cuttings.

Best SeasonSpring and early summer.

PruningPinch back to encourage bushiness; prune after flowering if needed.

RepottingRepot young plants to avoid root-binding; mature plants rarely need it unless container-grown.

Pests & DiseasesSusceptible to aphids, whiteflies, mealybugs, and fungal leaf spots; good air flow helps.

ToxicityNon-toxic to humans and pets; edible calyces used in food and drink.

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