Hibiscus acetosella

[[File: Hibiscus acetosella Welw. ex Hiern. African rosemallow"]. United States Department of Agriculture. They tend to be alternate, simple, and deeply cut with crenate or jagged edges. Leaf color is observed as a dark maroon to a patchy red/green appearance. Stipules are linear, measured approximately 1.5 cm in length. Both stems and petioles (3–11 cm in length) are smooth or generally free from hair. Acetosella is further divided into a section called Furcaria, which is a group of approximately 100 species that have non-fleshy calyx or sepals. The sepals contain 10 veins, 5 of which run to the apices of the segments; the other 5 run to the sinuses. Stems tend to be variegated. Flowers are solitary and sit atop a 1 cm long pedicel. They vary in color and are most often the dark maroon that is characteristic of the foliage with darker vein-like markings. Flowers are rarely yellow in color and are about 5 cm {2 inches} deep. Each flower contains numerous stamens at about 2 cm in length. The cranberry hibiscus is hermaphroditic and is thought to be self-pollinating. It produces seeds that are reniform and dark brown with dimensions of 3×2.5 mm.|thumb]]

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Hibiscus acetosella
Kingdom:	Plantae
Phylum:
Class:
Order:	Malvales
Family:	Malvaceae

Hibiscus acetosella, commonly known as the cranberry hibiscus, is a species of flowering plant in the family Malvaceae. It is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and is widely cultivated for its attractive foliage and edible leaves.

Description

Hibiscus acetosella is a perennial shrub that can grow up to 1.5 meters in height. The plant is characterized by its deeply lobed, palmate leaves that are typically dark red to purple in color, resembling the leaves of the Japanese maple. The flowers are small, with a deep red to maroon hue, and are less conspicuous than those of other Hibiscus species.

Cultivation and Uses

Hibiscus acetosella is cultivated primarily for its ornamental value, due to its striking foliage. It is also grown for its edible leaves, which have a tangy, slightly sour taste. The leaves are rich in vitamins and minerals and can be used in salads, soups, and stews. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.

Medicinal Properties

Traditionally, Hibiscus acetosella has been used in herbal medicine. The leaves are believed to have diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties. However, scientific studies on the medicinal benefits of Hibiscus acetosella are limited, and more research is needed to substantiate these claims.

Propagation

Hibiscus acetosella can be propagated by seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in a warm environment, while cuttings can be taken from mature plants and rooted in water or soil.

Ecological Impact

As a non-native species in many regions, Hibiscus acetosella can become invasive if not managed properly. It is important to monitor its growth and spread to prevent it from displacing native flora.

Also see

• Hibiscus sabdariffa
• Hibiscus rosa-sinensis
• Malvaceae
• Perennial plant