Description
Hibiscus sabdariffa.
This popular, easy to grow tropical plant is a lovely addition to the garden.
The fleshy red calyxes have a tart-sweet flavour and are high in vitamin C. They can be used in salads, jams, jellies and for flavouring drinks, in addition to their medicinal uses. Harvest the calyxes after flowering.
The young leaves are edible too (often referred to as red sorrel) and can be steamed or added to stir-fries.
The plant prefers a full sun position, in rich, well-draining soil. It likes regular watering and should grow to about 2m in height.
