Aibika
Abelmoschus manihotfam. Malvaceae
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Pl. A71A — Abelmoschus manihot
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IOverview
Overview
Aibika, scientifically known as Abelmoschus manihot and belonging to the Malvaceae family, is a perennial plant native to regions including Assam, Bangladesh, parts of China, India, Southeast Asia, and New Guinea. This plant thrives in full sun and moist conditions, with adaptable soil types ranging from light (sandy) to heavy (clay). It can grow up to 3 meters tall and is hardy in zones 8-11. Aibika is valued for its edible parts, which include flowers, leaves, and shoots, making it a versatile addition to gardens or landscapes where its distinctive large, heart-shaped leaves and showy blooms add ornamental value.
Quick answers
What is Aibika?
Aibika, scientifically known as Abelmoschus manihot and belonging to the Malvaceae family, is a perennial plant native to regions including Assam, Bangladesh, parts of China, India, Southeast Asia, and New Guinea.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Aibika thrives in full sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 8-11 and grows as a perennial reaching up to 3 meters tall. For propagation, use seeds or division of established plants. Harvest edible parts such as flowers, leaves, and shoots throughout the growing season.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
8-11
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
3.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Aibika for the first time
8steps
Start with Aibika as a simple, low-maintenance perennial for your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
Aibika seeds or seedlings, a trowel, and mulch.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Aibika in spring after the last frost, when temperatures are warm.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with well-draining soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). Ensure it gets full sun.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1-2 cm deep in rows spaced 60-90 cm apart. Transplant seedlings when they have several true leaves.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry spells. Fertilize with compost every few months.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune regularly to encourage bushy growth and remove dead leaves. Harvest flowers and leaves as needed for use in cooking.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting regular pruning, not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersLeavesShoots
Edible uses: The aibika plant is edible and its flowers, leaves, and shoots can be consumed. The flowers are often eaten raw or cooked in various dishes, while the leaves and young shoots are typically prepared by boiling or steaming before use in meals.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
24 native · 6 introduced
Distribution
24 native · 6 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 24 native· 6 introduced
Asia10 regions
native (10)BangladeshChinaIndiaLaosMyanmarNepalPakistanPhilippinesThailandVietnam
Africa3 regions
introduced (3)GabonGuineaLiberia
Oceania1 region
introduced (1)Fiji
Broader regions
native:Bismarck Archipelago, Christmas I., East Himalaya, Jawa, Maluku, New Guinea, Queensland, Sulawesi, Sumatera, West Himalaya, Lesser Sunda Is.
introduced:Central African Repu, Cook Is.
XSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Malvaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Malvaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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