By Umar Nsubuga
Hibiscus sabdariffa, commonly known as roselle, is a tropical plant cherished for its stunning red calyces, which are used in beverages, teas, jams, and traditional medicines.
Known for its tangy flavour and rich nutritional benefits, growing this versatile plant has become increasingly popular among farmers and gardeners alike.
With the right approach, cultivating hibiscus sabdariffa can be both rewarding and sustainable, yielding beautiful blooms and a bountiful harvest.
Evanice Manyiraho, an experienced herbal farmer from Kicwamba in Kabarole district says hibiscus sabdariffa thrives in warm climates with plenty of sunlight, making it ideal for tropical and subtropical regions.
She says the first step to successful cultivation is choosing the right location. This plant requires full sun exposure, so selecting a well-lit area in the garden is essential for its growth.
“The plant prefers loamy, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (between 6.0 and 7.5). If the soil is too heavy or clay-like, it can be improved by adding organic compost to enhance drainage and fertility,” she explains.
Hibiscus sabdariffa is not highly demanding in terms of soil quality, but it benefits from nutrient-rich, well-aerated soil for optimal development.
Planting hibiscus sabdariffa
Manyiraho says roselle can be grown from seeds, which are sown directly into the ground or started in seedling trays and transplanted once they reach 6-8 inches in height.
The planting season typically begins at the onset of the rainy season in tropical regions. The seeds should be sown about 1 inch deep and spaced approximately 2-3 feet apart to allow enough room for the plant to spread, she explains.
Within a week or two, Manyiraho says the seeds will germinate, and the young plants will begin to develop rapidly under the right conditions.
“It’s important to keep the soil moist during the early stages of growth, but avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot,” she says adding that regular watering during dry spells is crucial, especially when the plant is flowering and forming calyces.
Growth and care
Gideon Zakke, an agronomist says hibiscus sabdariffa can grow up to 8 feet tall, depending on the variety and growing conditions.
To encourage strong, healthy growth, light pruning may be required, especially during the early stages. He explains that pinching back the stems can promote bushier growth and help the plant produce more flowers and calyces.
He says fertilising the plant every few weeks with a balanced organic fertilizer can further boost growth. However, over-fertilising should be avoided, as it can lead to excessive foliage production at the expense of flowers.
“Since roselle is relatively drought-tolerant, once established, it requires less frequent watering but should still be monitored closely during periods of extreme heat,” he states.
Flowering and harvesting
“One of the most exciting stages in growing hibiscus sabdariffa is when it begins to flower. About 4-5 months after planting, the plant will produce beautiful yellow or pale pink flowers with a distinctive red center,” says Zakke.
These flowers are short-lived, lasting only a day or two, but they give way to the bright red calyces, which are the primary harvestable part of the plant, he says.
He says the calyces are harvested by hand approximately 10 days after the flower has withered. At this point, they are plump, tender, and perfect for processing. To ensure a continuous harvest, regular picking is encouraged, as the plant will continue to produce flowers and calyces over several weeks.
Uses and benefits of hibiscus sabdariffa
Once harvested, Manyiraho says the calyces are commonly dried for tea production, where they impart a tart, cranberry-like flavour. They can also be used fresh to make refreshing drinks, jams, and sauces.
She says the plant’s leaves are edible too, often cooked as a vegetable in certain cuisines, while the seeds are sometimes pressed for oil or used in animal feed.
Hibiscus sabdariffa is not only prized for its flavour but also for its health benefits. Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, roselle tea is known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. It’s no wonder that the plant has been cultivated for centuries, especially in parts of Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean, where it holds significant cultural and medicinal value.
