Swamp Hibiscus (Hibiscus diversifolius)

Family: Malvaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Hibiscus diversifolius is a deciduous Shrub growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) by 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10 and is frost tender. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Roots/Tubers, Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

mild and quite mucilaginous, making a pleasant addition to the salad bowl. — Young leaf buds - they are good either raw or cooked.; The young leaves can also be eaten, they are mild and quite mucilaginous, making a pleasant addition to the salad bowl.; Flowers - raw or cooked with other foods.; They have a very mild flavour and are very mucilaginous.

Habitat & North American Range

Mainly by the coast, especially near rainforests, occasionally on disturbed ground in Australia in New South Wales and Queensland. (Zone 9)