Hibiscus sabdariffa commonly called sorrel or rosella comes from the Malvaceae family and originated from India and Malaysia, later spreading to Africa and the Caribbean.
Sorrel is an annual plant that flowers and fruits in one year with 2 bearings and then dies off. Sorrel grows to a height of approximately 6 feet in good condition. It is very easy to grow and is a hardy plant. The flowers are creamy yellow with a scarlet throat that looks like a small hibiscus flower, and the fruit comes in time for the Christmas season.
Approximately 3 weeks after flowering the fruit is ready for harvesting.
It is the thick outer red sepals that are used for culinary and medicine purposes, although the flowers, fruits and leaves are all edible. Sorrel is rich in calcium, potassium, magnesium and Vitamin A and C. Sorrel can be brewed to make tea, while jams, jellies, sauces, syrups, juices, drink and wine can be made from it. There are two varieties of sorrel on the market, the regular red and a very dark red one. So whichever one you bought make sure your sorrel drink is ready for all the visitors who are home for Christmas.
Did you know that China and Thailand are the world’s largest producers of sorrel? Thailand having invested heavily in sorrel production is known for its superior quality. Dried Sorrel is available all year round in many countries around the world.
It can be grown by seeds, and likes sun or semi-shade. Don’t forget to thin the seedlings and keep the plants well watered. Fertilise once a month.
Have a happy Christmas.
Until next week, happy gardening!
