HIBISCUS
ACETOSELLA -CRANBERRY HIBISCUS/FALSE ROSELLE/AFRICAN ROSEMALLOW
1
Live TC Plant/Plug – 6-8 inches - Edible Leaves!
(Hibiscus
acetosella)
YOU
WILL RECEIVE ONE SMALL TISSUE CULTURE PLANT/PLUG. THE
ROOT BALL WILL BE WRAPPED IN DAMP PAPER TOWEL AND PLASTIC WRAP FOR
SHIPMENT.
Hibiscus acetosella,
the cranberry hibiscus or African rosemallow, is
a flowering plant of the genus Hibiscus or rosemallow. The
word acetosella is of Latin origin and is derived from an old name
for sorrel (Oxalis) which comes from the sour taste experienced when eating the
young leaves of the plant. Hibiscus acetosella is also known
colloquially as false roselle, maroon mallow, red leaved
hibiscus, and red shield hibiscus.
Cranberry hibiscus is a
member of a perennial group known as hardy hibiscus. In contrast to the
tropical hibiscus, hardy hibiscus can tolerate colder conditions, are more
vigorous, longer lasting, and have larger flowers. In colder
climates, Hibiscus acetosella is considered an annual as it cannot
survive freezing temperatures. It is often regarded as a perennial in USDA zone
9–11. During one season, the plant can grow 90–170 cm (3.0–5.6 ft)
tall and 75 cm (30 in) wide as a shrub.
Cranberry hibiscus is
mostly known for its slightly sour or pleasantly tart young leaves which are
commonly used as a vegetable, either raw or cooked. In South America, the
leaves are used sparingly in salads and stir-fries. Leaves are eaten in small
quantities due to acid content and because they are mucilaginous. Cranberry
hibiscus leaves also contribute to the décor of various dishes since they
retain their color after being cooked.
Flowers are used to make
teas or other drinks where they contribute color rather than taste. In Central
America the flowers are combined with ice, sugar, lemon, or lime juice and
water to make a purple lemonade.
cranberry hibiscus will
thrive in pretty much any type of soil from clay to silt to sandy soils. It
does well in any type of light other than full shade, but will grow best in
full sun to partial shade. Cranberry hibiscus is not a heavy feeder, and is
relatively pest-free. This plant is well adapted to the hot and humid tropics,
but will survive under drier conditions better than other perennial vegetables
from humid areas. the plants may be transplanted to the garden and planted
approximately 6 to 10 feet apart for isolated bushes to as little as 2 ft apart
for a hedge type effect.