Roselle Asian Sour Leaf Seeds

Hibiscus Sabdariffa
Regular price $6.99
Regular price $9.99 Sale price $6.99
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About

Roselle Asian Sour Leaf (Hibiscus Sabdariffa), also known as Jamaican sorrel, or Gongura, is a fast-growing tropical shrub native to West Africa. Growing 4 to 6 feet tall, with deep crimson stems, lobed leaves, and pale pink bloom is a useful flower for a kitchen garden. In USDA Zones 9-12, it is a tender perennial, in all other zones, it is an annual. The calyces are used for Hibiscus tea, jams, and sauces, while the leaves are used in South Indian dal (gongura), cooked in a curry, or used in a pickle. 

Quick Facts

Life Cycle
Life Cycle Perennial; Annual
USDA Zones
USDA Zones 03–10
Light Requirements
Light Requirements Full sun
Germination Time
Germination Time 7–14 days
Stratification
Stratification Required; Not required
Spacing
Spacing 37 inches
Sowing Method
Sowing Method Direct Sow; Start Indoors
Soil
Soil Fertile; Sandy; Loamy
Flowering Period
Flowering Period Summer; Fall
Water Requirements
Water Requirements Moderate (regular watering)
Maturity Time
Maturity Time 120-140 days
Growing Habit
Growing Habit Upright

How to Grow & Harvest

Sowing & Timing

Soak your Roselle Hibiscus seeds in warm water for 24 hours before sowing to reduce germination time. When started indoors good timing is 6-8 weeks before your last frost date. When sowing Hibiscus Sabdariffa seeds outside, wait until nighttime temperatures are above 60°F. Sow Hibiscus Sabdariffa seeds 1/4 inch deep in moistened seed starting mix with soil temperatures between 70-90°F. At these temperatures, your Hibiscus seeds will sprout in 7-14 days.

Soil, Watering & Fertilization

Asian Sour Leaf plant requires full sun, at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight. Roselle is tolerant to different types of soils but grows best in loose, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0 to 7.0). Water deeply once or twice a week. Once established, these plants can survive short dry spells. 

Growth & Harvest

Feed once a month with a balanced slow-release fertilizer when the Asian Sour Leaf Roselle plant reaches 12 inches tall. Pinch growing tips to encourage a bushy plant with more flower nodes. Harvest calyces when they are full and deep red, 2-3 weeks after the petals have dropped off. Young leaves can be harvested throughout the season. 

FAQ

Are the seeds non-GMO and heirloom?

Yes.  KVITER Roselle Hibiscus seeds for sale are non-GMO and heirloom. These are open-pollinated, untreated seeds. That is why the germination is consistent even when you store extras in a cool dry place. Orders over $49 ship free — stock up on Sour Leaf seeds, and other varieties in one order and save on shipping.

What are good companion plants for Roselle?

Basil and Roselle growing side by side appear to keep common pests at bay for both plants. The tall Roselle plants will give afternoon shade for herbs like cilantro in hot climates. Marigolds will keep nematodes under control. Avoid growing Roselle alongside other heavy feeders that require a lot of nitrogen, like corn and squash.

Is this an easy plant for beginners?

Honestly, yes. Once you remember to soak seeds in warm water before sowing, everything else is easy. It grows fast and is tolerant to heat.