Cranberry Hibiscus (Hibiscus acetosella) is a beautiful, versatile plant that makes a great addition to your Central Florida food forest. Here’s a quick guide to growing this plant in your food forest.
Hardy varieties:
Cranberry hibiscus is a tropical plant, so it is not very hardy. However, some cultivars are more cold-hardy than others, being able to tolerate short-term frosts. Hardy varieties of Cranberry Hibiscus include ‘Cranberry Crush’, ‘Panama Red’ and ‘Red Shield’.
Planting and Care:
Cranberry hibiscus can grow in a variety of soils, but prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Plant in full sun to semi-shade and water regularly to keep the soil moist. It will tolerate some drought, but too much drought can cause it to drop its leaves. Pruning it as it grows will cause it to branch out and become more bushy rather than a tall, central stem.
Harvest:
The cranberry hibiscus leaves are edible and have a tangy, cranberry-like flavor. The leaves can be harvested at any time, but young, tender leaves are the most delicious. You can also eat the flower petals of the beautiful dark red flowers when it blooms.
Propagation:
Cranberry hibiscus can be propagated from cuttings or seeds. To propagate by cuttings, take cuttings about 6 inches long and remove the lower leaves. Soak the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant in well-drained soil. Keep the soil moist, give it a humid environment either in a greenhouse or with a humidity dome over the pot or plastic bag, and keep it out of direct sunlight until rooted. As the calyxes dry, you can remove them and separate the dried seeds inside. There will be many per calyx to replant.
Diseases and pests:
Cranberry hibiscus is generally a low maintenance plant, but it is prone to root rot if the soil is too wet. They can also be attacked by aphids and whiteflies. Keep an eye out for these pests and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil as needed.
Cranberry Hibiscus is a beautiful, flavorful plant and a great addition to your Central Florida food forest.