Roselle (plant)

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Roselle, Hibiscus sabdariffa, 2014 01

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Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa)

Roselle 2, Hibiscus sabdariffa, 2014

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Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) fruits

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Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) is a species of Hibiscus native to West Africa, used for the production of bast fibre and as an infusion, in which it may be known as carcade. It is an annual or perennial herb or woody-based subshrub, growing to 2–2.5 m tall. The leaves are deeply three- to five-lobed, 8–15 cm long, arranged alternately on the stems. The flowers are white to pale yellow with a dark red spot at the base of each petal, and have a diameter of 8–10 cm. Roselle is known for its bright red calyces, which are used to make a variety of food and beverages.

Cultivation

Roselle is grown from seed. It prefers a well-drained, sandy soil, supplemented with ample moisture, although it is somewhat tolerant of poor soils. The plant is sensitive to frost. It is typically grown in tropical and subtropical regions, but can be cultivated in temperate zones during the warmer months. Countries such as India, China, Thailand, Mexico, and Sudan are major producers of Roselle.

Uses

The primary use of Roselle is the production of hibiscus tea, a tea made from the calyces of the plant. This tea is rich in vitamin C and minerals, and is consumed both hot and cold due to its refreshing effect and unique taste. The calyces are also used to make jams, spices, soups, and sauces. In some cultures, the leaves are used for culinary purposes, either raw in salads or cooked in a similar fashion to spinach.

Roselle is also known for its potential health benefits, including blood pressure management, cholesterol reduction, and liver protection. The plant's high concentration of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds contribute to these effects.

Production

The harvesting of Roselle involves collecting the calyces, which are the fleshy red structures surrounding the plant's flowers. After harvesting, the calyces are typically dried for tea production or processed immediately to make extracts or syrups. The timing of the harvest is crucial to ensure the calyces are at their peak flavor and nutritional value.

Cultural Significance

In many cultures, Roselle is more than just a crop; it is a part of traditional ceremonies and festivals. For example, in Sudan and other parts of Africa, Roselle tea is a traditional drink served to guests and during special occasions. In the Caribbean, a drink made from Roselle is popular during the Christmas season.

Botanical Description

The plant's ability to thrive in a variety of conditions, along with its vibrant flowers and calyces, make it a popular choice not only for agricultural purposes but also for ornamental use in gardens.

Conservation

While Roselle is widely cultivated, there is an ongoing effort to conserve genetic diversity within the species. This includes preserving wild varieties and traditional cultivars that may have unique properties or be more resilient to changing climate conditions.