Growing Rosella, also Queensland Jam Plant, Roselle

Hibiscus Subdantta : Malvaceae / the mallow family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec

Not recommended for growing in USA - Zone 5a regions

  • Sow in garden, or start in seed trays. Sow seed at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed. Best planted at soil temperatures between 20°C and 35°C. (Show °F/in)
  • Space plants: 140 cm apart
  • Harvest in 21-25 weeks.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): Feverfew, Coriander, Nasturtium and Hyssop

Your comments and tips

01 Sep 10, Dorothy Spofford (USA - Zone 7a climate)
Growing up in Qld my Mum always made Rozella jam.While visiting the Botanical garden in Norfolk Va this summer I noticed a large thriving crop of Rozella. Where can I get the seeds to try and grow in Williamsburg.Va.
01 Sep 10, Liz (New Zealand - temperate climate)
The online catalogue of www.nicholsgardennursery.com lists roselle.
Showing 11 - 12 of 12 comments

Hi Bruce, Rod here from Caboolture Qld, about 30klms from coast. From my experience and not sure what you refer to as a mature plant. Rosellas like full sun, like soil to be moist but do not overwater, like a well drained soil, they are known to die very quickly if too wet. I buy seedlings as I have poor success in raising from seed. Up to about 400mm high I remove any small fruit so that they tend to branch out. I planted last year in September and the first flowers appeared about 3 weeks ago. Fruit ready to pick now. My trees are about 2metres tall now. Message back if you would like more info. Cheers Rod

- rod ward

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