A flowering shrub belonging to the genus Hibiscus or Rosemallow is called Hibiscus Acetosella, sometimes known as the Cranberry Hibiscus or African rosemallow. The Latin origin of the name acetosella is a miniature of the Latin term for sorrel, which refers to the sweet taste of the plant’s leaf surfaces when eaten.
Hibiscus acetosella is sometimes referred to as red-leaved hibiscus, fake roselle, maroon mallow, and red shield hibiscus in common parlance. It is one of about 200–300 varieties that can be found in subtropical and tropical areas. This decorative plant is typically found in wetlands, open spaces, deserted fields, and woodland clearings.
See also: What is Hibiscus and how to grow it in your home?
Cranberry hibiscus: Key facts
| Botanical name | Hibiscus acetosella |
| Type | Shrub, woody perennial |
| Leaf Type | It has greenish-red to burgundy toothed leaves and smooth stems |
| Flower | Yes |
| Varieties available | 3 |
| Also known as | Rosemallow |
| Height | 4 ft. tall; 4-6 ft. wide |
| Season | Late summer, fall, winter |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun, partial shade |
| Ideal Temperature | 25-degree Celsius |
| Soil Type | Rich, well-draining |
| Soil pH | 6.1-6.5 |
| Basic requirements | Keep the plants moist, but don’t let the soil become soggy around them. |
| Ideal Location for placement | Africa |
| Ideal season to grow | Winter |
| Maintenance | Fairly low |
See also: 21 best flowers for your garden
What are Cranberry Hibiscus plants?
Cranberry Hibiscus, known by its botanical name Hibiscus acetosella, is a flowering plant from the Malvaceae family. It belongs to the Hibiscus genus of flowering plants comprising hundreds of species. They grow in warm temperate, subtropical and tropical areas across the world. Cranberry hibiscus is grown in areas of medium altitudes that receive high rainfall. However, it also survives in drought conditions.
Cranberry hibiscus: Native habitat
Cranberry hibiscus plants are native to South Africa. Their native habitats include tropical, subtropical, and arid regions of south, central, and north Africa and the Caribbean. The plant was known to be a hybrid of a wild African hibiscus species. However, today’s cultivars are known to originate in Angola, the Sudan or Zaire, and believed to have been introduced into Brazil and Southeast Asia as a crop.
Cranberry hibiscus: Features
The cranberry hibiscus is a somewhat upright, perennial shrub plant cultivated primarily for its eye-catching foliage, which can display spectacular copper and maroon hues comparable to those of red maple trees. There are over 200 plants, trees, ornamental plants, and perennials in the expansive genus Hibiscus.
Although many can have bright, occasionally plate-sized flowers that give them a tropical and exotic appearance, Hibiscus acetosella is planted for its eye-catching, attractive leaves.
Although cranberry hibiscus plants are close to the end sub-shrubs or woody perennials that may only live for a few years, they are nevertheless an excellent investment for the garden because of how quickly they develop.
The latest types have been cultivated to have deeply lobed, beautifully cut leaves resembling Japanese maples. The leaves can be oval or lobed. They come in various green tones with red veining that extends all the way to a fully burgundy leaf.
See also about: semal tree
Cranberry hibiscus: How to grow?
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The cranberry hibiscus bears the classic yellow and crimson funnel-shaped hibiscus blossoms. Hibiscus acetosella’s flowers are sporadic, unlike most other hibiscus species, and some of the more recent cultivars are completely flowerless. Despite being an upright grower, Hibiscus acetosella mature plants tend to divide and flop.
The plant is widely grown for its attractive flowers, with deep purple hues. You can grow cranberry hibiscus from cuttings. Take cuttings about 8 to 12 inches in size. Remove the leaves. Plant it quickly or place it in a bucket of water. You can transplant it to the ground when the roots begin to develop. Take the cuttings when the soil temperature is a minimum of 25 degrees Celcius.
Cranberry Hibiscus: Care
Light
Although Hibiscus acetosella thrives in both full sun and dappled shade, full light yields the plant’s most fabulous colour. In severely hot and dry conditions, plants may require some partial shade.
Soil
Rich, well-draining soil is essential since the cranberry hibiscus cannot endure standing in soggy soil.
Water
Maintain damp but not soggy soil. The leaves will fall if the soil is allowed to dry out.
Fertiliser
Even during summertime, fertilise with appropriate fertiliser once to twice a week. Plants growing in containers shouldn’t be overfed unless you have a bigger container for them to move to.
Pruning
The cranberry hibiscus plant grows well after pruning. It rapidly becomes bushy. Pruning is essential as it helps prolongs the plant’s life.
Pest and diseases
Cranberry hibiscus plants are usually resistant to pests and diseases.
Cranberry hibiscus: How to maintain?
The resilient cranberry hibiscus enjoys full sun, although it may also grow in moderate shade. It grows most efficiently in warm, moist climates. It requires plenty of water, rich, fertile soil that is replanted and quite well, and a pH of around 6.1 and 6.5.
A Japanese maple tree could be too big in places where a hibiscus acetosella makes a beautiful focal point. They contrast dramatically with chartreuse plants and gentler pink and white tones. Several lesser varieties can survive the winter months in a conservatory and make great flower pots.
Although it is not necessary, pruning can be used to regulate or shape your plant’s size. Fast-growing, lengthy branches tend to curve and widen the plant’s core. This hibiscus benefits from some pruning to keep its robust shape. The wind can damage long branches, and the petals can tatter.
All through the summer, there is intermittent blooming, but the blooms are not particularly eye-catching. The more recent cultivars, which also are developed for their greenery, rarely, if ever, blossom like the species do.
Cranberry hibiscus: What are the uses?
The leaves of the cranberry hibiscus can be eaten either fresh or cooked. Young leaves from the plant have a tangy, cranberry-like flavour and keep their colour after being cooked. They have been most frequently used in salads and stir-fries.
Typical uses for hibiscus plants include all of their parts. The flowers and foliage are primarily used to treat ailments like cancer and bladder problems, to reduce blood pressure, to soothe dry coughs, and externally to treat skin disorders because of their calming (demulcent) and abrasive characteristics.
On chilly, late-winter days, the hibiscus adds some floral overtones and gives the impression that spring is just around the horizon. Combine water, dried hibiscus, and fresh or frozen cranberries for a revitalising DIY herbal tea. The plant can be used as a background plant in ornamental beds owing to its attractive leaf colour.
The cranberry hibiscus has vitamins magnesium, iron, and vitamins B2, B3, and C in its foliage and flower petals. The uncooked stems and blooms are used in stir-fries and salads. Teas and other beverages are frequently made with flower petals.
FAQs
What benefits does cranberry hibiscus have?
The cranberry hibiscus has antioxidants, calcium, iron, and vitamins B2, B3, and C in its leaves and flower petals. The uncooked leaves and blooms are used in stir-fries and salads. Teas and other beverages are frequently made with flower petals.
How do you eat cranberry hibiscus?
Hibiscus blossoms should be simmered in 2 cups of water for the filling. Remove from heat; soak for 5-8 minutes or until blooms are barely delicate. Strain while saving the blossoms (you can save the liquid for future use).
Can cranberry hibiscus be grown indoors?
Yes, cranberry hibiscus can be grown indoors. Place the plant near the sunniest window in your house where they can receive the most sunlight.
How long does a potted hibiscus live?
Hibiscus plants in pots can live for 40 years or longer, which is quite common.
Is cranberry hibiscus invasive?
No, the cranberry hibiscus is not an invasive plant.