There are many types of Edible Hibiscus. The one we grow has also been identified as Abelmoschus manihot, Hibiscus manihot, and is known as bele or abika. The leaves are very nutritious (Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Iron and protein).
This type of Edible Hibiscus grows as a perennial in the tropics and subtropics. It grows very easily from cuttings. And is a shrub which can and can grow up to about 12 feet tall. Furthermore, they are hardy, tolerant of heavy rains and drought. The leaves are large and once established they produce prolifically. The larger leaves are mucilaginous. For us, the more tender leaves are preferred for cooking.
If you order cuttings from us, you will receive about 1 foot long cuttings with the majority of the leaves snipped off. These plant readily in the ground if regularly watered until they begin to develop new growth.
Resources:
- https://anthrome.wordpress.com/2008/04/04/malvaceae-bele/
- https://tropicalselfsufficiency.wordpress.com/2017/01/24/edible-hibiscus-abelmoschus-manihot/
