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Cranberry Hibiscus

Cranberry Hibiscus, also known as Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa), is native to West Africa but is now cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. It is commonly grown as an ornamental plant, as well as for its culinary and medicinal uses. Here are some key points about where Cranberry Hibiscus grows:

  1. Climate: Cranberry Hibiscus thrives in warm, tropical and subtropical climates. It prefers temperatures between 60°F to 90°F (15°C to 32°C) and requires a frost-free environment to grow. It can tolerate a wide range of conditions but grows best in areas with high humidity and ample sunlight.

  2. Soil: Cranberry Hibiscus grows well in a variety of soil types, including sandy loam, clay loam, and well-drained soils. However, it prefers fertile, slightly acidic to neutral soil with good moisture retention. It does not tolerate waterlogged or poorly drained soils.

  3. Water: While Cranberry Hibiscus is relatively drought-tolerant once established, it requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. It is important to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged to promote healthy growth and flowering.

  4. Sunlight: Cranberry Hibiscus thrives in full sun to partial shade. It requires at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day to produce abundant foliage and flowers. In areas with intense sunlight, some afternoon shade may be beneficial to prevent leaf scorch.

  5. Cultivation: Cranberry Hibiscus can be grown as an annual or perennial depending on the climate. In tropical regions, it may grow year-round as a perennial shrub, while in temperate climates, it is often grown as an annual or brought indoors during the winter months.

  6. Propagation: Cranberry Hibiscus can be propagated from seeds or stem cuttings. Seeds should be sown directly into the soil after the danger of frost has passed, while stem cuttings can be rooted in water or soil.

Overall, Cranberry Hibiscus is a versatile and adaptable plant that can thrive in a variety of growing conditions, making it suitable for cultivation in many regions with warm climates



How to make a Beverage from Cranberry Hibscus Flowers

Making a beverage with Cranberry Hibiscus flowers is a refreshing and simple process. These flowers are known for their tangy and cranberry-like flavor, making them an excellent addition to drinks. Here's a recipe for a Cranberry Hibiscus Flower Iced Tea:


Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup dried Cranberry Hibiscus flowers

  • 4 cups water

  • Sweetener of your choice (e.g., honey, sugar, agave syrup) to taste

  • Ice cubes

  • Lemon or lime slices for garnish (optional)


Instructions:

  1. Rinse the dried Cranberry Hibiscus flowers under cool water to remove any dust or impurities.

  2. In a saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.

  3. Once the water is boiling, add the dried Cranberry Hibiscus flowers to the saucepan.

  4. Reduce the heat to low and let the flowers simmer for about 10 minutes. This will allow the flavors to infuse into the water.

  5. After simmering, turn off the heat and let the mixture cool for a few minutes.

  6. Strain the liquid to remove the Cranberry Hibiscus flowers, leaving you with a vibrant red hibiscus tea.

  7. Sweeten the tea to your liking with your preferred sweetener. Start with a small amount, then taste and adjust as needed.

  8. Let the sweetened tea cool to room temperature.

  9. Once the tea has cooled, transfer it to the refrigerator and let it chill for at least an hour.

  10. When you're ready to serve, fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the chilled Cranberry Hibiscus iced tea over the ice.

  11. Garnish each glass with a slice of lemon or lime, if desired.


Enjoy your homemade Cranberry Hibiscus Flower Iced Tea! It's a delicious and refreshing drink that's perfect for hot days or any time you're craving a tangy and fruity beverage. You can also experiment with adding other flavors or herbs to customize the taste to your liking.


Candied Hibiscus Flowers: Great in Popcorn like snacks or salads!


  1. Clean and dry your hibiscus flowers, petals or calyx.

  2. Paint a super thin layer of egg white onto each side of the flower petals or blossoms.

  3. Coat with fine sugar (can sprinkle it on or roll in it)

  4. Place them on a piece of parchment paper.

  5. Place in a dehydrator or Bake at 170 degrees for about 7 hours.

  6. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.



Agua de Jamaica (Hibiscus Tea) Recipe


2 quarts water

3/4 to 1 cup sweetener to taste. Use your favorite sweetener.

1 cup dried Hibiscus flowers (Hibiscus sabdariffa)

1/2 Cinnamon stick (Ceylon cinnamon) optional

A few thin slices of Ginger (Zingiber officinale) optional

A few Allspice berries (Pimenta dioica) optional

Dash of Lime juice

Orange or lime slices for garnish


  1. Bring the water to a boil the water. Add the Cinnamon, Ginger, and Allspice to the water, reduce heat and allow to simmer for 10 minutes; then add the sweetener, allowing the sweetener to dissolve fully.

  2. Add the hibiscus flowers and remove them from heat. Allow the flowers to infuse for 20-30 minutes.

  3. Strain the mixture into a pitcher and add your fruit slices. If you want to shake it up, add raspberries or mandarins.

This drink is refreshing and nourishing. Agua de Jamaica is a refreshing beverage made of dried hibiscus flowers. It is refreshing and light—ideal for family bbq's, picnics, or Sunday brunch. This tea is a diuretic; it is beneficial for blood pressure and contains vitamin C.





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