Hibiscus Acetosella

 So a few months ago, I grabbed a seed pod off of Ray's 'edible hibiscus' in his back yard. The plant was given to him by his neighbor. When we were visiting one day, I noticed the seed pod, so I picked it, and planted the seeds. We now have 3 very healthy plants growing - but is it edible?  In doing some research. I believe it is!

 Edible Gardening in SW Florida: has a blog, and they have a photo of the leaves/plant that we have. They state in their article: Hibiscus acetosella, also known as Red Leaf Hibiscus, False Roselle, or African Rose Mallow is not the typical flowering hibiscus found in many lawns here in Lehigh Acres. The delicious edible leaves and flowers are the reason to grow this special type of hibiscus. 

West Hawaii Today, has an article as well and they have a photo of the flower on our plant. They say its a native of Africa and can be made into tea, or the flowers placed into salads. 

Here are photos taken this past weekend from our yard. We have 3 plants, one is in full shade and doing the best, as we've had to cut the plant back twice now as it's touched the bottom of the roof. Another plant was place in full sun (photos are from that plant) and one in partial shade.