Cotton Rose (Hibiscus mutabilis)

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

Hibiscus mutabilis is a deciduous Shrub growing to 3 m (9ft) by 3 m (9ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8 and is frost tender. It is in flower from August to October, and the seeds ripen from September to November. 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, Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Leaves. The leaves contain rutin, but the report does not say what quantity. Root - it is edible but very fibrousy. Mucilaginous, without very much flavour. — The leaves contain rutin, but the report does not say what quantity.; Root - it is edible but very fibrousy.; Mucilaginous, without very much flavour.

Habitat & North American Range

Thickets in S. Japan. (Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9, Zone 10)