Aibika (Abelmoschus manihot)

Family: Malvaceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Abelmoschus manihot is a PERENNIAL growing to 3 m (9ft) by 2 m (6ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9 and is frost tender. It is in flower from July to September, and the seeds ripen from August to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Sweet and mucilaginous. — Young leaves - raw or cooked.; Sweet and mucilaginous.; The leaves are high in vitamins A and C, and iron, and have 2% protein by dry weight.; Young leaves can be used as a lettuce substitute or a spinach substitute.

Habitat & North American Range

Wasteland and humid rocky hillsides. In Nepal it grows at elevations of 700 - 1700 metres in rocky places with shrubs. Grasslands, near streams and margins of farm land. (Zone 8)