Names:

Hibiscus sabdariffa, Roselle, Florida Cranberry, Red Sorrel, Jamaican Sorrel, Karkade.

Description:

Hibiscus sabdariffa is a member of the Malvaceae (Mallow) family and is closely related to okra. This erect, branched shrub features alternate, green-to-reddish leaves that are palmately divided into 3–7 lobes. The flowers are typically 3–4 inches in diameter, pale yellow or white with a deep reddish-purple center. After the petals fall, the base of the flower (the calyx) swells into a fleshy, bright red "fruit" that is the primary part harvested.

Growing Conditions:

Hibiscus is a heat-loving plant that requires full sun (6+ hours) and a long, warm growing season to produce its signature calyces. It is frost-tender and hardy only in USDA zones 8–11; in cooler zones (3–7), it is grown as a rapid-growing annual. Seeds should be started indoors before the last frost, as the plant is sensitive to transplanting and needs short days (12+ hours of darkness) to trigger abundant flowering in the fall.

Light requirements:

Full Sun (6+ hours)

Soil requirements:

Loose well draining soil, Slightly acidic to neutral pH

Sandy loam, or clay loam

Watering:

Moist not wet

Harvest:

Harvest when blooms are plump and tender, roughly 10 days post bloom.

4-5 months after planting, usually in Oct./Nov.

Parts Used:

Flowers/Fruit, Leaves, Seeds, Stems, Roots

Herbal Actions:

Antioxidant, antihypertensive, diuretic, and anti-inflammatory

Energetics: Cooling, drying

Primary Uses:

The red calyces are high in Vitamin C, anthocyanins, and organic acids, making them popular for use in teas, jellies, and natural food coloring. Traditionally, hibiscus is used as a "refrigerant" to lower body temperature and to support cardiovascular health by helping to manage blood pressure. The young leaves are also edible, offering a spicy, spinach-like flavor often used in salads and stews.

Culinary: Tea, jams, jellies, sauces, and condiments

Medicinal: High in Vitamin C and antioxidants, used for blood pressure management, colds, and as a diuretic.

Industrial: Natural red food coloring and fiber production

Ornamental: Planted for their striking red, fleshy calyces

Allies:

Closely related to cotton, okra, and hollyhock. Pairs well with citrus, mint, and berries.

Cautions:

May lower blood pressure too much, can interact with diabetes medications, Harm to liver health in high doses

NOT recommended while pregnant or breast feeding - Potential emmenagogue effects