Rosella (Roselle, Florida Cranberry, Red Sorrel, Indian Sorrel, Mesta
Hibiscus sabdariffa)
Origin: Hawaii and West Indies
Plant: September – December
Harvest: February – April
Propagation: Seeds
A hardy, annual bush originating from Hawaii and the West Indies grows to 1-2m high. Allow 1 m spacing between plants grown in full to partial sun with well-drained soil.
Each bush can produce 1-2 kg of fruit or more, depending on soil fertility, climate conditions, day and night temperatures and how the bush is cared for. Picking off the plump, red calyces as soon as they mature, encourages regular flowering and more fruit set.
Source of Vitamins A, B, C and minerals calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron, cobalt, manganese, zinc, silicon, phosphorus and very rich in selenium and chromium.
To prepare rosellas, the red calyces need to be pulled off the seed capsule by hand. You can freeze the calyces until you have enough to make jam.
Australia has many different frog species, with over 200 described and probably more to be discovered. However, Australia’s frog populations are declining, as are populations worldwide, for reasons that are as yet unknown. This is a disturbing trend because the presence of frogs is a good indication of a healthy environment. 
Follow Us!