Light: Full sun
Moisture: Roselle does best with regular watering
Hardiness: USDA Zones 8 - 11
Seeds
can be planted outdoors in USDA zones 8-11. Farther north (to zone 6),
start seeds indoors and transplant outside after all danger of frost.
Roselle can be a short-lived perennial in zones 10 and 11.
Propagation: Roselle is an annual propagated from seed.
Roselle
is an interesting and beautiful plant in the home landscape. Fifty
years ago it was widely grown in Florida as a summertime hedge and for
its edible calyces. The dark green leaves contrast nicely with the red
stems and petioles, and the yellow flowers are a rare treat in October
and November. The edible calyces are a bonus. Place roselle where it
will have plenty of room. This is a large annual, so thin plants to
about 3 ft (0.9 m) apart. Feed and mulch well. In Florida, roselle is
often planted in rows where it forms a dense hedge by late summer.
Roselle
juice is similar to cranberry juice, but not as bitter. The calyces are
harvested while they are still tender and juicy, about 10 days after
the flowers appear. The plants will continue to flower and produce if
kept picked. Remove and discard the seed pods from the calyces. Bring 2
quarts (1.9 l) of calyces and 1 quart (1 l) of water to a boil and
simmer for 10 minutes, then strain and use the juice with sugar to make a
refreshing cranberry-like drink, or make jelly or wine as you would
with any fruit juice. The strained pulp can be used for jam or pie.