Water
African Rosemallow prefers consistently moist soil but dislikes waterlogged conditions. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering during cooler months to prevent root rot.
Ensure good drainage to avoid issues.
Also known as African Rose-Mallow · Cranberry Hibiscus · False Roselle
African Rosemallow (Hibiscus acetosella) is a striking ornamental shrub featuring deep red, maple-like foliage and vibrant crimson flowers, adding bold color to gardens.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering and growth.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, but avoid waterlogging.
Well-drained, fertile soil
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-25°C. Protect from frost.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed during growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
African Rosemallow prefers consistently moist soil but dislikes waterlogged conditions. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering during cooler months to prevent root rot.
Ensure good drainage to avoid issues.
Prune African Rosemallow in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Pinch back young plants to encourage bushier growth.
Light pruning can be done after flowering to maintain shape.
African Rosemallow is easily propagated from seeds sown indoors in spring or directly outdoors after the last frost. Cuttings can also be taken from softwood or semi-hardwood stems in summer and rooted in moist potting mix.
Repot young plants annually or when root-bound, typically in spring. Choose a pot one size larger with good drainage. Mature plants can be repotted every 2-3 years. Use a well-draining potting mix.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of African Rosemallow (Hibiscus acetosella)
Where African Rosemallow (Hibiscus acetosella) is found

Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Hibiscus |
| Species | Hibiscus acetosella |
Similar in genus Hibiscus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data