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

Your comments and tips

15 May 17, Maree Pennells (Australia - temperate climate)
Hey Noela, I live at Athol (half-way to Pittsworth) and I purchased my seedlings from Bunnings in Toowoomba. They are still going well. I have memories of my Grandmother growing rosella plants in her back yard for years, her yard backed onto Gold Park, and she didn't do anything special for them, so have a look at any of the garden shops here and good luck
27 Nov 14, David (Australia - temperate climate)
I've just bought 2 rosellas from a lovely lady at Nobby, 20 minutes south of toowoomba.. Names Cecelia roadside garden with lots of plants to sell.
18 Oct 14, Jackie Payne (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
I have seed happy to share. Email your address and I will post to you. Regards, JP
04 Dec 14, Brandon (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
Hi Jackie, Thanks for your generosity. I was wondering you have Roselle seed to share? My email [email protected]
23 Nov 14, ChrisbellaleungLeung (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
hi Jackie, can I have rosella seed from u? thanks Chrisbella001 [at] gmail.com
07 Nov 14, Krishna Boddu (Australia - temperate climate)
Jackie, I am not sure if you have any more Rosella seeds to share. If I am lucky, could you please email me Krishna [email protected]
29 Oct 14, ChrisbellaleungLeung (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
hi Jacki can I have some Rosella seed too?
28 Aug 14, Jude D (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
Unless you want the fruit whole just tear the leaves off then the bud is easy. A lot quicker and easier on the fingers. Also due to arthritis in my hands I don't have the strength to push them through any more.
28 Jul 14, Michelle (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
I want to know if rosella plants only have a one season life. I have been told to pull them out but have also been told they will have. Few more crops.
08 May 14, tien le (USA - Zone 5b climate)
i want buy plant or seed roselle
Showing 191 - 200 of 472 comments

I grow a large plantation of approx 900 plants. If you are organic - Utilise pyrithrum for mites that may attack the stems. If you have drainage issues the root rot is cause by Needmatodes in the soil. It is very important not to re-plant a rosella straight away in the same location. Make sure your beds are well rested to rebuild core nutrients and particularly nitrogen for a good return harvest. While bed resting make sure you toss the soil for subsoil airation as well. @ 2 months they do appreciate a slight scatter of dynamic lifter and if you can source it prior to flowering worm castings - an incredibly rich furtiliser that makes up 1litre per 1 gram. I have been supplying the flower in syrup for years which is most commonly used in either drinks or served over ice cream and have recently made Rosella vinegar. Another hint is to make it into a sauce for pork - Devine taste!!! For any enquiries please email myself: zenon.kowalczyk (at) gmail.com

- Zenon

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This planting guide is a general reference intended for home gardeners. We recommend that you take into account your local conditions in making planting decisions. Gardenate is not a farming or commercial advisory service. For specific advice, please contact your local plant suppliers, gardening groups, or agricultural department. The information on this site is presented in good faith, but we take no responsibility as to the accuracy of the information provided.
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