Plant guide

Roselle.

Hibiscus sabdariffa

Pronounced hy-BIS-kus sa-ba-DAR-ih-fah

Also known as Indian-sorrel, Jamaica-sorrel, Roselle, red-sorrel, sorrel

Roselle is a beautiful tropical shrub known for its vibrant red calyces that are often used to make refreshing teas and jams. It loves a warm, sunny spot in your garden and grows quite quickly during the summer months. You will enjoy its striking flowers and the tart flavor of its harvestable parts.

At a glance

Care level: Easy
Plant type: Annual shrub
Light: Full sun
Indoor light: Direct sun
Water: Every 2 to 4 days
Mature size: 5 to 8 feet
Growth rate: Fast

Care

Give this plant plenty of space and full sun to encourage healthy growth and fruit production. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, and watch for aphids on the tender new growth. Harvest the calyces once they become plump and firm to the touch.

Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist during the active growing season.
Feeding: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer monthly to support vigorous growth.
Pruning: Pinch back the tips of young stems to encourage a bushier shape.
Repotting: Since it is typically grown as an annual, repotting is usually not necessary.
Soil: Well-draining, fertile soil
Soil pH: 5.5 to 7.0

Safety

Pets: This plant is generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs.

How to identify it

Deep red fleshy calyces
Large pale yellow flowers
Deeply lobed green leaves
Sturdy reddish stems

Science

Family: Malvaceae
Genus: Hibiscus
Order: Malvales
Class: Magnoliopsida

Taxonomy resolved against GBIF.

Is your roselle looking unwell?

This page is a general guide. Pocket Botanist diagnoses problems from a photo of your actual plant, works out watering for your light and conditions, and reminds you when care is due.

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This guide was generated with AI and checked against GBIF taxonomy. It is general information, not horticultural or veterinary advice. Read about how we build these guides.