Roselle Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa), also known as Rosella, is a tropical plant native to West Africa, renowned for its striking flowers and edible calyces that are used in a variety of culinary and medicinal applications. This fast-growing, bushy plant produces stunning red and white flowers, followed by vibrant, tangy red calyces (the outer part of the flower) that are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. Roselle is commonly used in making teas, jams, and sauces and is known for its health benefits. With 50 seeds in this pack, you can cultivate your own Roselle Hibiscus plants, enjoy their vibrant beauty, and make use of their delicious and nutritious fruit.

Key Features:

• Vibrant Flowers: The Roselle Hibiscus features beautiful, large white and red flowers that add tropical beauty to any garden.
• Edible Calyces: The plant produces edible, tangy calyces that are often harvested for use in teas, jams, sauces, and health drinks.
• Nutrient-Rich: Roselle calyces are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and other beneficial compounds, known for their health-promoting properties.
• Versatile Use: In addition to culinary uses, Roselle is also known for its medicinal properties, such as promoting healthy digestion and lowering blood pressure.
• Fast-Growing: Roselle Hibiscus grows quickly, reaching maturity within one season, making it a rewarding plant for both beginners and experienced gardeners.
• Tropical & Ornamental: In addition to its practical uses, Roselle Hibiscus is a stunning ornamental plant with a striking appearance, making it an attractive addition to your garden.

Growing Information:

Light:
Roselle Hibiscus thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day to grow well. It can tolerate partial shade, but full sun will produce the most vigorous growth and the best flower and fruit production.

Soil:
This plant prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0). It thrives in loamy or sandy soils enriched with organic matter. It’s important to ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.

Planting Tips:
Plant the seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last frost date in your area. To speed up germination, soak the seeds in warm water for 24 hours before planting. Plant the seeds about 1/4 inch deep in seed-starting trays. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle and the danger of frost has passed, transplant them outdoors. Space the plants 18-24 inches apart to allow for healthy growth. Roselle can also be grown in containers if you're limited on garden space.

Watering:
Roselle prefers consistently moist soil, but it doesn’t like being waterlogged. Water regularly, especially during dry periods, but ensure the soil drains well to avoid root rot. During the growing season, it will need more water, but in the winter, reduce watering when the plant is dormant.

Temperature:
Roselle is a warm-weather plant, thriving in temperatures between 70°F and 90°F (21°C to 32°C). It is sensitive to frost, so plant it after the last frost date in spring. In colder climates, consider growing it as an annual or in containers that can be moved indoors during the winter months.

Pruning:
Roselle doesn’t require heavy pruning. However, you can trim back any dead or damaged branches. To maintain a bushy growth habit and encourage more flowers and fruit, you may also pinch back the tips of the plant during its early growth stages.

Benefits:

• Health Benefits: Roselle is known for its many health benefits, including its high vitamin C content, antioxidant properties, and potential to lower blood pressure. The calyces are used to make a tangy, refreshing tea that is rich in nutrients.
• Culinary Uses: The red calyces are often used to make delicious beverages like hibiscus tea, as well as jams, jellies, sauces, and even desserts. The tangy flavor adds a unique twist to many dishes.
• Medicinal Uses: Traditional medicine uses Roselle for digestive health, as a diuretic, and for its anti-inflammatory properties. It is also used for promoting liver health and as a natural remedy for hypertension.
• Attractive Ornamental Plant: The plant is not only useful but also adds beauty to your garden with its large, colorful flowers and tropical appearance.
• Easy to Grow: Roselle Hibiscus is a hardy and fast-growing plant, making it suitable for both beginner and seasoned gardeners. It can be grown in containers or garden beds.

Growing Zones:
Roselle Hibiscus thrives in USDA hardiness zones 9-11, making it suitable for tropical and subtropical climates. It can be grown as an annual in cooler regions or as a container plant that can be moved indoors during the winter.

How to Use in the Garden:

• Edible Garden: Plant Roselle Hibiscus in your edible garden to harvest the tangy, flavorful calyces for culinary uses such as making teas, jams, or sauces.
• Ornamental Shrub: Use Roselle Hibiscus as an ornamental plant in tropical or subtropical gardens. Its vibrant flowers and bushy habit make it an excellent choice for creating colorful hedges or borders.
• Container Planting: Roselle can be grown in containers, making it a great option for gardeners with limited space or those in colder climates. Just move it indoors when the weather turns cold to protect it from frost.

Conclusion:
Roselle Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa) is a vibrant, fast-growing plant that provides both beauty and functionality in the garden. With its stunning red and white flowers, nutritious and edible calyces, and numerous culinary and medicinal benefits, Roselle is a must-have for any tropical or subtropical garden. The 50 seeds in this pack will allow you to grow your own Roselle Hibiscus, adding a delightful touch of color and flavor to your garden and kitchen.