Hibiscus sabdariffa
Family: Malvaceae
Common Name: Jamaica Sorrel

The fleshy part of this fruit is used for making jams and preserves, which are quite delicious, though not widely eaten. Believed to have originated from tropical Africa, Hibiscus sabdariffa is a fast-growing annual or biennial, which reaches to 1-2 m (3-6 ft) high. It has large, three-lobed leaves, red leaf stalks and yellow, hibiscus-type flowers, followed by the fruit which may be red or yellow.

Cultivation

In frost-prone climates, this tender plant can be grown like tomatoes, either under glass or in the garden. Sow seed in spring, pot up the seedlings, and plant out when 15 cm (6 in) high. To plant into the garden, wait until frosts are over, then place them 60 cm (24 in) apart in rows 1 m (3 ft) apart. The first heads may be harvested about three weeks after flowering. Once harvesting has begun, collect the heads every week so that the fruit is not fully mature and woody. The roselle is relatively pest-free.

Climate

Zone 10 to tropical, but will grow as a summer annual in all zones.