Hibiscus sabdariffa - Roselle
Hibiscus sabdariffa has been used in many ways. Medicinally Roselle is rich in vitamin C and is used for cancer treatment and as a diretic. Infusions of the calyx, the red seed pod surrounded by the sepals, are used for tea and jam. Fibers from the branches are used for yarns and burlap. Hibiscus sabdariffa is native to West Africa. In our area plants are too tropical to withstand our winters outdoors in all but the warmest winter gardens but can be kept in containers and moved in or treated as an annual. The pink flowers with red centers are spectacular. In the garden Hibiscus sabdariffa is a nectar and larval food source for the Painted Lady Butterfly, Cloudless Sulfur, and the Northern White Skipper, White Checkered Skipper, and is a great addition to the butterfly garden. Hibiscus sabdariffa grows to 4 feet or so in a season.
Red tinged leaves and flowers of Hibiscus sabdariffa - Roselle. High resolution photos are part of our garden image collection.
Plants from the Hibiscus Genus featured on this site:
Hibiscus lasiocarpos * Wooly Rose Mallow
Hibiscus sabdariffa * Roselle
Hibiscus syriacus Jeanne D'Arc * Double White Rose of Sharon
Hibiscus syriacus Lavender Chiffon
Hibiscus syriacus Minerva