Native Rosella (Hibiscus heterophyllus)

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

Hibiscus heterophyllus is an evergreen Shrub growing to 1.8 m (6ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10 and is frost tender. It is in leaf all year. 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. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Shoots, Roots/Tubers, Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Pleasantly acid. — Leaves and young shoots - raw or cooked.; An excellent spinach substitute, the boiled leaves losing their acidity.; Flowers and flower buds - raw or cooked.; A very mild flavour.

Habitat & North American Range

Moist eucalyptus forests, jungle gullies and rainforest edges. (Zone 9)