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Description
Hibiscus Sabdariffa, also known as Roselle or Red Sorrel, is a tropical and subtropical plant that is native to West Africa. It is widely cultivated in many parts of the world, including India, Thailand, Africa, and the Caribbean. The plant is known for its edible calyces, which are used to make a popular beverage called “hibiscus tea.” The plant is also used for medicinal purposes and has been found to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Hibiscus |
| Species | Sabdariffa |
Appearance
Hibiscus Sabdariffa is an annual herbaceous plant that can grow up to 2 meters tall. It has a woody stem and large, green leaves that are deeply lobed and have serrated edges. The plant produces bright red calyces that are used to make hibiscus tea. The calyces are fleshy and have a tangy, sour taste. The plant also produces small, white or yellow flowers that are not as showy as the calyces.
Care Guide
To care for Hibiscus Sabdariffa, it is important to provide it with adequate water, fertilization, soil, sunlight, and hardiness zones.Water: The plant requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. It is important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.Fertilization: Hibiscus Sabdariffa benefits from regular fertilization, especially during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is recommended.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.Sunlight: Hibiscus Sabdariffa requires full sun to grow and produce flowers. It can tolerate some shade, but this can affect its growth and flowering.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11 and can be grown as an annual in colder climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hibiscus Sabdariffa is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:1. Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause damage to the leaves and flowers.2. Whiteflies: These tiny, white insects can cause damage to the leaves and transmit plant viruses.3. Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves and flowers.4. Root rot: This disease can occur if the plant is overwatered, leading to rotting of the roots.
Habitat
Hibiscus Sabdariffa is native to West Africa and is widely cultivated in many parts of the world, including India, Thailand, Africa, and the Caribbean. It grows best in warm, tropical and subtropical climates and prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Hibiscus Sabdariffa easy to grow?
A: Yes, Hibiscus Sabdariffa is relatively easy to grow, as long as it is provided with adequate water, fertilization, soil, sunlight, and hardiness zones.Q: How long does it take for Hibiscus Sabdariffa to mature?
A: Hibiscus Sabdariffa usually matures in about 6-8 months from seed to harvest.Q: Can I use the leaves of Hibiscus Sabdariffa to make tea?
A: No, the leaves of Hibiscus Sabdariffa are not used to make tea. Only the calyces are used.Q: How do I harvest Hibiscus Sabdariffa?
A: To harvest Hibiscus Sabdariffa, wait until the calyces turn bright red and feel plump to the touch. Then, cut them off the plant with a pair of sharp scissors or pruners.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Hibiscus Sabdariffa:- Hibiscus rosa-sinensis- Hibiscus syriacus- Hibiscus cannabinus- Hibiscus acetosella- Hibiscus mutabilis
References
– Morton, J. F. (1987). Roselle. Fruits of warm climates.- Ochekwu, I. P., & Ochoche, O. B. (2011). Hibiscus sabdariffa Linn—An overview. Natural Products Radix, 10(6), 532-537.- Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) Production Guide. (n.d.). University of Florida IFAS Extension.
