Hibiscus sabdariffa
Rosella is a tropical/subtropical shrub grown for its edible red calyces. It’s also known as Jamaica sorrel, Florida cranberry, or red sorrel. I think they are stunning bushes with beautiful flowers and the most amazing looking fruit.
The flavour is hard to describe, it is tart and tangy but very moreish. I love my Rosella and honey tea during the cooler months.
It needs a long growing season (4–6 months frost-free) and can be grown in large pots if you have limited space. When dried, the calyces store really well for year-round use. I am able to get a year’s supply of dry Rosella for tea from just a couple of bushes.
Size: 1.5 to 2 meters tall (approx. 5–6.5 ft)
Sun: Full sun (at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily)
Climate:
- Prefers warm, humid climates
- Sensitive to frost — it will grow as an annual in cooler zones
- Best suited for USDA zones 9–11
Soil: Well-drained, loamy, slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5)
Spacing: Plant 1 meter (3 ft) apart and sow seeds 1–2 cm deep
Germination: 7–14 days
Planting Time: Spring or after last frost
Propagation: Seeds (easiest), cuttings also possible. Soak seeds in warm water for 12–24 hours before sowing to boost germination.
Watering:
- Keep soil moist but not waterlogged
- Water deeply once or twice a week depending on weather
- Reduce watering slightly as calyces mature
Feeding:
- Apply compost or a balanced organic fertilizer when planting
- Avoid excessive nitrogen (too much foliage, fewer flowers)
- Can feed with additional potassium when flowering begins
Maintenance:
- Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Prune early for bushier growth (optional)
- Stake if needed to support tall plants
When to Harvest
Flowering occurs about 10–12 weeks after planting with harvesting around 5–6 months after planting. You harvest the red calyx (fleshy part around seed pod). Pick them when they are firm and bright red, just after flowers drop.
Don’t forget to leave some of the better ones on the plant for seed collection. Once the calyx withers the seeds from the inside pod can be dried and stored for next year’s crop.
What can Rosella be used for?
- Herbal teas (use dried or fresh), add a little honey if you like your tea sweet. I often add a little mint or lemongrass to mine for a mildly different flavour
- Jams, jellies, syrups
- To add some colouring and/or flavouring to your cooking
- A tasty vitamin boost – it is high in vitamin C and antioxidants
- Use can use the calyx as a substitute for cranberries or rhubarb in cooking