If you’re looking for a stunning edible plant that brings both beauty and bold flavor to your garden, meet the Roselle Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa) — also called “Jamaica” in Latin America. Known for its vibrant red calyces used in teas and syrups, Roselle is a must-have for gardeners who love functional plants with a cultural twist.
At Inca Plant Nursery, we love plants that are as useful as they are beautiful — and Roselle does both effortlessly.
🌿 What Is Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa)?
Roselle is a tropical hibiscus species native to Africa and widely grown in the Caribbean, Southeast Asia, Central America, and the Southern U.S. It’s best known for the red, fleshy calyces that form around its flowers — not the petals — which are harvested and dried for herbal teas and drinks like the popular agua de Jamaica.
The plant itself is a showstopper: bold red stems, dark green leaves, and hibiscus flowers with a pale yellow color and a crimson throat. It can grow up to 7 feet tall, forming an attractive hedge or backdrop in edible landscapes.
☀️ How to Grow Roselle
Roselle is surprisingly easy to grow if you live in a warm climate.
Growing Conditions:
- Sunlight: Full sun (6–8 hours daily)
- Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil
- Water: Moderate, consistent moisture—don’t let it dry out for long
- Climate: Thrives in USDA Zones 9–11; can be grown as an annual in cooler zones
Tips for Success:
- Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before your last frost date, or direct sow after danger of frost has passed.
- Space plants 2–3 feet apart for good airflow.
- Harvest calyces when they are plump and firm, about 3 weeks after flowering.
- Prune lightly to encourage bushier growth and more flowers.
🍹 How to Use Roselle: Recipes & Ideas
Roselle is more than just pretty — it’s delicious and rich in antioxidants, especially vitamin C. Here are a few ways to enjoy it:
1. Agua de Jamaica (Hibiscus Tea)
- Ingredients: 1 cup dried Roselle calyces, 4 cups water, sweetener to taste, optional lime
- Instructions: Boil calyces in water for 10 minutes. Strain, sweeten, and chill.
- Tip: Add lime juice for extra tang.
2. Roselle Jam
- Ingredients: 2 cups Roselle calyces (seeds removed), 1 cup sugar, 1/4 cup water
- Instructions: Simmer calyces and sugar until thickened (20–30 min). Store in a jar.
- Serving: Spread on toast, swirl into yogurt, or glaze over baked goods.
3. Roselle Syrup
- Simmer calyces with sugar and water, then strain to make a vibrant red syrup perfect for mocktails, cocktails, or drizzling over pancakes and ice cream.
🌺 Cultural Roots
In Mexico, “agua de Jamaica” is a staple drink served chilled and sweetened, similar to iced tea. In the Caribbean, it’s known as sorrel, especially around Christmas, where it’s often spiced with ginger and cloves and served as a holiday beverage. Across Africa and Asia, Roselle is used in traditional medicine and cuisine, showing just how beloved and versatile this plant is around the world.
🪴 Grow Your Own at Inca Plant Nursery
We offer healthy Roselle Hibiscus (Jamaica) plants ready to grow in your home garden. Whether you’re interested in herbal teas, edible landscaping, or growing something meaningful from your culture, Roselle brings color, flavor, and tradition all in one.
Visit our nursery or order online to get started with Roselle today!
