Hibiscus acetosella aka Cranberry Hibiscus

Taxonomy

Hibiscus acetosella, also known as cranberry hibiscus, African rosemallow, false roselle, maroon mallow, red leaved hibiscus, and red shield hibiscus, is a member of the Malvaceae family. This ornamental plant is found in abandoned fields, open areas, marshes, and forest clearings in sub-tropic and tropic regions. It is a perennial plant that can grow up to 90-170 cm tall and 75 cm wide during one season, and produces deep red to burgundy maple-like leaves. The plant also has reddish-purple trumpet-shaped flowers that appear in late fall and last through winter. Cranberry hibiscus grows best in full sun and fertile, fast-draining soil and is hardy in USDA plant hardiness zones 9 through 11. It is a rare houseplant that needs regular watering and should be placed less than a foot from a window to thrive. Hibiscus acetosella likes well-draining soil and doesn't need added fertilizers if it is repotted each time it doubles in size. It is native to Burundi to southern tropical Africa and is one of approximately 200-300 species in the hibiscus genus.

Common names

Cranberry Hibiscus, False Roselle, Red Leaf Hibiscus

How to care for Cranberry Hibiscus

Difficulty

Cranberry Hibiscus presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

Water

Cranberry Hibiscus should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Cranberry Hibiscus loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Cranberry Hibiscus thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Red Leaf Hibiscus.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Humidity

No additional humidity is required for the Cranberry Hibiscus. Plants take in most of their water through their roots, not their leaves, therefore, watering the soil is the most effective way to supply humidity to your plants.

Fertilizer

Repotting the Cranberry Hibiscus is necessary either when it has doubled in size or once every year, whichever happens first. With fresh potting soil replenished annually, the plant will receive all the necessary nutrients, rendering the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that the source of a plant's energy is the sun, not fertilizer.

Region of origin

Cranberry Hibiscus’s native range is Worldwide.


More info:
Wikipedia