The Roselle Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa), also known as Rosella or Florida Cranberry, is a tropical annual plant celebrated for its striking red calyces, edible fruit, and attractive white-to-red hibiscus flowers. These non-GMO Roselle Hibiscus seeds produce fast-growing plants ideal for both ornamental and culinary gardens.
Used worldwide in teas, jams, and beverages, the Roselle plant also adds dramatic color and texture to any landscape. Its vigorous growth and showy blooms make it a perfect dual-purpose plant for beauty and harvest.
Key Features
- Produces bright red calyces and showy white-to-red hibiscus flowers
- Non-GMO, heirloom tropical variety
- Edible fruit used for herbal teas, syrups, and culinary use
- Fast-growing annual with bold ornamental appeal
- Heat-tolerant and thrives in full sun
Specifications
| Characteristic | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Roselle Hibiscus / Rosella / Florida Cranberry |
| Scientific Name | Hibiscus sabdariffa |
| Plant Type | Annual Flowering and Fruiting Shrub |
| Growth Habit | Upright, bushy form |
| Heirloom | Yes |
| GMO Status | Non-GMO |
| Organic | Naturally untreated seed form |
| USDA Hardiness Zones | 9–11 |
| Sunlight Requirement | Full Sun |
| Soil Type | Well-drained, fertile loam or sandy soil |
| Soil pH | 5.5–7.5 |
| Season | Warm-season annual |
| Watering | Moderate; prefers evenly moist soil |
| Days to Germination | 10–14 days |
| Days to Maturity | 90–120 days |
| Mature Height | 4–7 feet |
| Spread | 3–5 feet |
| Flower Color | White to red with dark centers |
| Fruit Color | Deep red calyces and pods |
| Pollination | Self-fertile; attracts bees and butterflies |
| Maintenance | Low; prune lightly to encourage branching |
| Uses | Ornamental display, edible calyces, herbal tea production |
Planting Guide
- Seed Starting: Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost date.
- Planting Depth: Sow ¼ inch deep in warm, moist soil.
- Temperature: Maintain 75–85°F for optimal germination.
- Transplanting: Move outdoors after all frost danger has passed.
- Watering: Keep soil evenly moist during growth and flowering.
- Care: Provide full sunlight and fertile soil; harvest red calyces when mature.
