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 68°F and 95°F. (Show °C/cm)
  • Space plants: 55 inches apart
  • Harvest in 21-25 weeks.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): Feverfew, Coriander, Nasturtium and Hyssop

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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.
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01 Sep 10, Liz (New Zealand - temperate climate)
The online catalogue of www.nicholsgardennursery.com lists roselle.
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Rosellas can be used for jam, topping, wine, jelly, chutney, paprika substitute ect. All "fruits" /calyx (the red fleshy cone) are used after the yellow flower opens for a day then dies. Full sized "fruits" take a couple of weeks from flowering and get to around 6cm long 10g+. smallest fruit about 4cm and 5g. Don't let seed capsule dry out. Most recipes require the "flower" to be separated from the seed capsule, can do this with a tool made from a push bike pump handle with 6cm of steel tube. I also eat young leaves of rosella bush. Packet seeds are often available from various seed packet producers check online or better for a quick start get plants in punnets from garden shop.I'm a 2nd generation jam maker growing rosellas sincef cub gardeners badge in early 60's.

- Roger Goebel

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