SUNSET HIBISCUS SEEDS

Abelmoschus manihot

An incredible and marginally edible ornamental to tuck into the vegetable garden. This tropical species is in fact more closely related to Okra than to common Hibiscus, although they are both members of the huge Malvaceae family.

Large plants feature big beautiful yellow flowers with a red eye. Very striking in the landscape. Easily grown as an annual, even in the north. Grows to 7' in a single season, and blooms from July until frost. Perennial in zone 8, and a large evergreen shrub in frost free zones.

Though ornamental value alone would be enough to warrant growing this species, it possesses virtues beyond the aesthetic. When cooked the large leaves are a delicious and nutritious vegetable, high in vitamins and minerals and containing up to 12% protein. Flavor is surprisingly sweet, and the texture is good for a mallow. The flowers are edible as well, although it seems almost a shame to eat something so stunning. Young green seed pods may be prepared and eaten like common okra, although we find them a bit prickly.

In addition to being beautiful and edible, the fresh roots of this species are used to produce neri, a unique dispersing agent used in the production of traditional washi paper in Japan. Highly recommended for botanical textile artists.

Sow these seeds indoors at least 8 weeks before the last spring frost. Lightly scarify or nick seed before tucking about 1/4" below the surface of moist soil, pressing to keep seed snug. Mist generously with warm water and cover pot with plastic. In bright light at warm room temperature, seeds will germinate in 1-3 weeks, sometimes taking longer if night temperatures are cool. Prick out seedlings once they have true leaves to grow on in deep 6" pots in bright light at warm room temperature. Transplant outdoors after all danger of frost has passed. These tropical plants really love the heat. Plant them in the warmest, sunniest corner of your garden. Or grow in a large container on the patio.

For washi production, seeds should be germinated in large deep pots to begin with, and avoid root disturbance when transplanting. In frost free zones the seeds may be sown outdoors. These plants will produce the most uniform roots. Plants may also be propagated by cuttings.

Grown by Farmacie Isolde.

Packet contains at least 15 seeds.