Roselle Hibiscus Heirloom Seeds

Grow the tart hibiscus used in sorrel drinks, teas, and jam. Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) forms fleshy cups around its seed pods after flowering. Those cups, called calyces, are the part most often used for drinks.

Packet: 10 seeds

Planting at a glance

• Season: Warm season; long-season shrub
• Start: Direct sow after frost or start individual containers in warmth
• Seed depth: ½ inch
• Germination: Allow about 1–3 weeks in a warm, moist mix
• Final spacing: Allow about 3–6 feet for a branching plant
• Light: Full sun
• Harvest planning: Leaves can be picked earlier; calyces develop after flowering, often in fall as days shorten

When to plant

Plant outdoors after frost danger passes and the soil has warmed. In short-season areas, count back from your intended outdoor planting date for indoor starts. Many roselle types respond to shorter days. A quick leaf-harvest estimate is not a calyx-harvest date.

How to plant

1. Prepare loose, well-drained soil or a clean seed-starting mix. Direct sow after frost or start individual containers in warmth.
2. Sow ½ inch deep. Keep the seedbed evenly moist until seedlings emerge. Then water when the soil needs it, allowing excess water to drain.
3. Thin or transplant to the listed final spacing. Give seedlings sufficient light and check moisture as roots establish.

How to harvest

For calyces, pick the fleshy cups surrounding the seed pods after flowers fade, while they are tender.

Aunt E’s tip: Plan for a big plant and an autumn calyx harvest where your frost-free season permits.