Mahogany Splendor
Cranberry Hibiscus(Hibiscus acetosella)
The most widely grown seed-propagated cultivar of Hibiscus acetosella, valued for its dark burgundy, deeply serrated maple-shaped foliage on a fast-growing 4-5 ft plant. Grown primarily as an ornamental foliage annual, though its leaves are edible.
Flavor Profile
Edible leaves with a tart, sour, cranberry-like flavor; can be used sparingly like sorrel or cooked like a green, retaining color after cooking
Visual Characteristics
Dark burgundy, deeply serrated, maple-shaped (palmate) leaves; foliage appears greenish/rust in shade or greenhouse conditions but develops rich burgundy-mahogany color in full sun; grows about 4-5 ft tall and 1.5-2 ft wide
Growing Tips
Scarify (chip or file) and soak seed before sowing to aid germination; germinates in roughly 3-14 days at 70-80 F. Best foliage color develops in full sun. Tender; grown as an annual in zones colder than 8a-9b.
Resistance Information
Disease Resistance
No serious disease or pest problems reported for the species
Where to Buy
Sourcing information coming soon. Check local nurseries and seed banks for availability.