When should I plant Roselle?

Sow seed indoors 6–4 weeks before your last spring frost. Move seedlings into the garden 2–4 weeks after your last spring frost. Sow seed straight into the ground 1–4 weeks after your last spring frost.

How far apart do I plant Roselle?

Space Roselle about 36″ apart. It grows best in full sun.

What grows well with Roselle?

Good companions for Roselle include Moringa, Okra, Cowpea.

What zones does Roselle grow in?

Roselle is suited to USDA zones 8–11 and takes ~120 days (to first calyces).

How to grow Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa)

The tart crimson 'hibiscus tea' plant (jamaica, sorrel) - grown for ruby calyces for cordials and jam, plus its lemony edible leaves.

Quick tip

Give it a long, hot summer - it's short-day and won't flower until the nights lengthen toward fall, so start early. Pick the fleshy red calyces after the petals drop.

☀️ Full sun↔ 36″ apartZones 8–11⏳ ~120d

When to plant Roselle

Start indoorsSow seed indoors 6–4 weeks before your last spring frost.
Transplant outMove seedlings into the garden 2–4 weeks after your last spring frost.
Direct sowSow seed straight into the ground 1–4 weeks after your last spring frost.

At a glance

Botanical name

Hibiscus sabdariffa

Companion planting

Plant near

🌱 A tall hibiscus relative that flowers late - pair it with other long-season heat-lovers and legumes.

Plan Roselle for your zone →