Hibiscus sabdariffa, commonly known as roselle, is an annual or perennial herb that is native to West Africa and thrives in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, including Asia and the West Indies. It typically grows up to 8 feet tall and has distinctive three- to five-lobed leaves. The flowers are white to pale yellow with a dark red spot at the base, blooming from late summer to fall. The calyces, which are the sepals of the flower, swell after the flowers bloom and turn bright red, providing an ornamental display. Roselle is known for its fleshy, red calyces that are harvested to make beverages, jams, and jellies, and are rich in polyphenolic compounds with potential health benefits.

Roselle is valued for its edible parts and for its aesthetic appeal in gardens. It is often grown for its bright calyces, which are used to make a tart, cranberry-flavored tea and other beverages. The plant is also consumed as a vegetable, and its fibers are utilized for cordage. In cultivation, roselle prefers full sun to part shade, well-drained soil, and regular watering. It is relatively easy to maintain, but it is sensitive to frost. In tropical climates, roselle can become weedy or invasive. It is susceptible to pests like aphids and to diseases such as leaf spot and root rot.CC BY-SA 4.0