Red leafed hibiscus?

[JerryCarr]

A neighbor gave us some starts of a red (maroon, actually) leafed plant with blooms similar to hibiscus. The leaves are edible and add color and tartness to salads. It's easy to grow and likes the sun. He called it "red leafed hibiscus," but I was wondering if that's what it really is. Also, does anybody know the story behind this stuff?

Cheers,
Jerry

[Noel M2]

Red hibiscus... actually, I think it may be Thai Hibiscus.

I have one in the back yard that I had to trim back after the last wind storm.

I hear that red zinger tea is made from this plant.

Noel

HiloParadise.com

[JerryCarr]

Thanks, Noel.

[Kelena]

It sounds delicious, Jerry -- and versatile! How big does it get?

[JerryCarr]

Glen, it gets about six to eight feet tall by about four to six feet wide. It has a tendency to get leggy, so I prune it often to keep it bushier. The flowers are edible, too. It seeds itself rather easily, so I will happily give you a keiki or three the next time you are on island.

Cheers,
Jerry

[Kelena]

Sounds like it might make a nice hedge, Jerry -- a hedge you can eat! Let's see.....I could run some salad dressing through a garden hose and just eat it in place!

Anyway, it sounds like a wonderful plant. I accept your kind offer, and I will see you in June!

[missydog1]

yes, many teas include red hibiscus if you read the labels.
Not that I make tea out of my own plants.
If you have one you'll have more. They're weedy that way.
I enjoy them, the legginess is their main drawback, if you just let them do their own thing they'll adopt a not too attractive form.

[aprild]

In Mexico red hibiscus is called Jamaica (ha mike a) and is used solely in a rich, red drink that is iced and sugared (your choice--honey, sugar, etc.) It is delicious and cuts thirst, cools and hydrates plus has multiple health benefits. In the health food store this is very pricey stuff. I would love to grow it.


april