Hibiscus sabdariffa is a erect and bushy sub shrub from the tropical and sub-tropical regions of W. Africa that can grow to 2.5m x 2.5m.
This is an attractive plant with upright red stems, the deeply three or five lobed leaves growing along each stem delicate flowers and bright red fruit.
In late summer, as the days get shorter, white to pale yellow funnel shaped flowers with deep crimson centres grow from the leaf axial along each stem. The flowers only last a day when they die the bright red fleshy calyces remain and protect the developing seed pod.
The leaves have a slight bitter taste and can be added to salads or cooked rather like spinach. The fleshy red sepals have many uses including herbal teas and food colouring.
Although they will grow to 2.5m they can be kept to about 1 m. The bright red stems and fruit add contrast colour to beds during autumn.