Red-leaved Hibiscus, Manihot Hibiscus
hibiscus acetosella
Also known as: ["False Roselle","African Hibiscus"]
Overview
A tropical shrub with striking red foliage and edible leaves, native to Central and South America.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Genus: | Hibiscus |
| Botanical Name: | Hibiscus acetosella |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or large container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with organic matter, such as peat or compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed year-round.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on desired shape and size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade but may produce fewer blooms.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight to avoid scorching; place indoors near a south-facing window or in a shaded outdoor area.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct sun; adjust light exposure seasonally.
Watering
every 7–10 days, more frequently in hot weather
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, and avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); thrives in warm conditions but can tolerate brief dips to 50°F (10°C).
Avoid drafts, maintain consistent warmth, and protect from sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 2–4 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to remove salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem, cut below a node, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, and wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with perlite or sand for drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use stems with visible leaf nodes; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or bud, remove crossing branches, and thin out crowded areas.
Pruning Plan
Encourage bushier growth, remove dead/damaged stems, and shape the plant for aesthetic appeal.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune at the right time, make clean cuts, remove debris, and dispose of pruned material properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly, and avoid direct sun for a few days.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare new soil, handle roots carefully, water after repotting, and monitor for stress.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid leaf wetting
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches, and allow excess water to drain to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate roots with mulch, and reduce watering to prevent cold-induced root rot.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering due to excessive heat and dry conditions.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun, increase humidity, and water more frequently to combat heat stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type, dilute correctly, apply to moist soil, avoid foliage contact
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10) every 2–4 weeks during growing season (spring/summer), diluted to half strength; reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHibiscus acetosella is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant is not listed among common toxic plants for felines, and there are no reported cases of toxicity in cats after ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicHibiscus acetosella is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant is not listed among common toxic plants for canines, and there are no reported cases of toxicity in dogs after ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicHibiscus acetosella, commonly known as cranberry hibiscus, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It is often used in culinary applications, particularly in salads and as a garnish due to its tart flavor.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Hibiscus acetosella edible?
A: Yes, the leaves and young shoots are edible and can be used in salads or cooked like spinach.
Q: Does Hibiscus acetosella require full sun?
A: It thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: How often should I water Hibiscus acetosella?
A: Water regularly to keep the soil moist, but avoid waterlogging.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, more freque |
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