Photo: "A view of a Hibiscus sabdariffa plant, Wave Hill, the Bronx, New York City" by Invertzoo
· CC BY-SA 4.0
Roselle · Hibiscus-calyx-crop
Roselle calyces and leaves
Annual · Malvaceae
Roselle is the edible hibiscus grown for its fleshy red calyces—the thick sepals that surround the seed pod—not for the open flower itself. It is important in Caribbean, African, South Asian, and Middle Eastern drinks and preserves, especially for tart ruby-colored tea, syrup, and jam. It suits gardeners who want a long-season crop that is ornamental and edible at the same time.
At a Glance
Days to Maturity
150–180 days
Sun
6+ hours
full sun 8 hours
Spacing
8–18 "
Seed Start
4–6 weeks
before transplant
Container
Not Ideal
10+ gallon pot
Height
5–7 ft
Zone Planting Guide
Growing Guide
Germination
Germination Time7–21 days
Optimal Temp70°F
Seed Depth0.25"
Transplanting
Min Soil Temp60°F
Harden Off5 days
Watering
Weekly Water1–1.5 "
NeedsConsistent
MethodBase watering
Soil
pH Range5.5–6.8
Soil TypeWell-drained garden soil rich in organic matter.
Resilience
Heat: HighCold: LowDrought: Moderate
Common Problems
aphids
Cause: Tender growth attracts sap feeders.
Prevention: Rinse colonies off early and keep plants growing steadily.
root-rot
Cause: Poor drainage and overwatering weaken roots.
Prevention: Use open soil and let the surface dry slightly between waterings.
Nutrition
Feeding IntensityLight feeder
Recommended RecipesRoot drench
Harvest
Harvest once the seed pods swell and the red calyces are thick, crisp, and fully colored, before they dry or toughen.
Expected Yield0.5–2 lbs/plant
Storage
7 days — Refrigerate fresh calyces briefly or dry them promptly for tea.
Sources
seed_catalog
Sow the Magic
seed_catalog
Lion Seeds
university
UF/IFAS Extension Orange County
Roselle calyces and leaves Planting Dates by Zone
Planting dates for Roselle calyces and leaves vary by USDA hardiness zone. Select your zone below for frost dates, start-indoors timing, and a full monthly planting calendar.
