How to grow rosella in a raised bed

Rosella is a beautiful tropical hibiscus grown for its tart red calyces — the makings of jam, cordial and the famous rosella tea. A striking, productive plant for a warm-climate raised bed.

Quick facts

• Position: full sun, loves heat
• Spacing: one plant per 1 m
• Tub depth: our 35 cm depth
• Time to harvest: 5–6 months

When should I plant rosella?

Rosella is frost-tender and needs a long, warm season — plant in spring for an autumn harvest. It's a natural fit for tropical and subtropical gardens. Our free garden calendar shows the right months for your postcode.

• Subtropical (Brisbane & SEQ): September to December
• Temperate (Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth): October to November
• Cool & mountain (Tasmania, Canberra, highlands): Not really suited to this zone
• Tropical (Cairns, Darwin): September to February
• Arid inland: October to November

How do I grow rosella in a raised bed?

Plant into rich mix in full sun and give it room — it grows into a big, handsome shrub. Pinch the growing tips early to make it bushier and more productive.

How do I use it?

It's the fleshy red calyx around the seed pod that you harvest, for jams, sauces, cordials and tea. The young leaves are edible too, with a tart, spinach-like tang.

What pests attack rosella?

Keep an eye out for aphids and caterpillars, though flowers are seldom much bothered. See our safe pest guide.

What are the common problems with rosella?

The main one to watch is powdery mildew, usually in damp, crowded conditions. Good airflow prevents most.

Where should I plant it?

A statement warm-climate plant; give it a sunny corner of its own. See our companion planting guide.

More growing guides: butterfly pea, sunflowers and borage.

Plan your patch: our free garden calendar shows what to plant now where you live. Ready to grow? Browse our raised garden beds or build your own with the garden bed builder.

Image: Zmu'az4Z, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.