Roselle
Hibiscus sabdariffafam. Malvaceae
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Pl. 819C — Hibiscus sabdariffa
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IOverview
Overview
Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) is a subshrub or herb that thrives in full sun and moist, light to heavy soils. Native to central African countries such as the Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Gabon, Ghana, Nigeria, Sudan, and Zaïre, this plant has been cultivated for its edible and medicinal properties. Roselle is known for its bright red calyces, which are often used in teas and jams. It also produces edible leaves, roots, and seeds. This annual can grow up to 6 meters tall and is adaptable to various soil types, making it a versatile plant in gardens and landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Roselle?
Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) is a subshrub or herb that thrives in full sun and moist, light to heavy soils. Native to central African countries such as the Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Gabon, Ghana, Nigeria, Sudan, and Zaïre, this plant has been cultivated for its edible and medicinal properties.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Digestive Harmony
digestiontea
Traditional blend for digestive support.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Roselle thrives in full sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 8-12, making it suitable for warm climates. This annual subshrub or forb/herb grows up to 6 meters tall and prefers a well-drained but consistently moist environment. For propagation, seeds can be sown directly into the garden after all danger of frost has passed. Roselle is versatile, with edible parts including flowers, leaves, roots, and seeds.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
8-12
Life cycle
Annual
Habit
Subshrub, Forb/herb
Mature size
6.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Roselle for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, light-loving Roselle plant for your first gardening experience.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or seedlings, potting soil, containers or garden space, water.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost when temperatures are consistently above 15°C (60°F).
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the garden after danger of frost, or start seedlings indoors 4-6 weeks before planting out.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Place in a sunny spot and protect from strong winds.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun, regular watering, and occasional feeding with compost or organic fertilizer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune regularly to encourage bushy growth and remove dead or damaged parts. Harvest flowers for tea when they are fully open.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough sunlight, neglecting regular pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersLeavesRootSeed
Edible uses: Oil, Coffee, Condiment, Drink, Pectin, Tea
Other uses:DyeFiberoilPectinWeaving material
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
8 native · 22 introduced
Distribution
8 native · 22 introducedDistribution across4 continents· 8 native· 22 introduced
Asia4 regions
introduced (4)BangladeshCambodiaChinaIndia
Americas4 regions
introduced (4)BelizeDominican RepublicEl SalvadorGuatemala
Africa13 regions
native (5)ChadGabonGhanaNigeriaSudan
introduced (8)AngolaBeninBurkina FasoCameroonComorosGambiaGuineaGuinea-Bissau
Oceania1 region
introduced (1)Fiji
Broader regions
native:Congo, Zaïre, Central African Repu
introduced:Brazil Southeast, East Himalaya, Cayman Is., Caroline Is.
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee 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
Explore further
Companion planting
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Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 819c8811-8f8c-44f3-bb48-6576a8df4f5c
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