Brown Indianhemp (Hibiscus cannabinus)

Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus) is a fast-growing annual plant in the mallow family, cultivated for its strong fiber and as a forage crop.

Above information is sourced from Wikipedia

Sunlight

Prefers full sun for optimal growth and flowering.

Watering

Water regularly, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged.

Soil

Prefers well-drained, fertile loam. Tolerates a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils, if drainage is adequate.

Temperature

Thrives in warm temperatures, ideal for summer growth.

Habitat

Outdoor

Fertilizer

Feed monthly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.

Care Requirements

Light

Prefers full sun for optimal growth and flowering.

Tolerates partial shade.

Water

Water regularly, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged.

Especially during dry periods.

Soil

Prefers well-drained, fertile loam. Tolerates a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils, if drainage is adequate.

Temperature

Thrives in warm temperatures, ideal for summer growth.

Sensitive to frost.

Habitat

Outdoor

Fertilizer

Feed monthly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.

Or use slow-release in spring.

Plant Overview

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Category

Foliage, Ornamental

Plant Place Type

Ground, Garden

Plant Environment

Outdoor

Lifespan

Annuals

Plant Height

1.5-3 m

Spread

0.5-1.5 m

Growth Rate

Fast

Dormancy

None

Leaf Color

Green

Leaf Type

Palmate

Flower Size

5-8 cm

Optimal Sunlight Lux

70000

Image Gallery

Flowering & Fruiting Cycles

Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.

Northern hemisphere

Flowering & fruiting calendar

Peak bloom · AugPeak fruit · Sep

FloweringFruiting

Southern hemisphere

Flowering & fruiting calendar

Peak bloom · MayPeak fruit · Jun

FloweringFruiting

Synonyms

Abelmoschus congener (Schumach. & Thonn.) Walp.

Abelmoschus verrucosus (Guill. & Perr.) Walp.

Furcaria cannabina Ulbr.

Furcaria cavanillesii Kostel.

Hibiscus asper Hook.f.

Hibiscus congener Schumach. & Thonn.

Hibiscus cordofanus Turcz.

Hibiscus henriquesii Pires de Lima

Hibiscus malangensis Baker f.

Hibiscus obtusatus Schumach.

Hibiscus tripartitus Forssk.

Hibiscus vanderystii De Wild.

Hibiscus verrucosus Guill. & Perr.

Ketmia glandulosa Moench

Taxonomy

kingdomPlantae
divisionTracheophyta
classMagnoliopsida
orderMalvales
familyMalvaceae
genusHibiscus
speciesHibiscus cannabinus

Toxicity

Toxic for humans

Rating: 0/5

Toxic for pets

Rating: 0/5

Edible

Additional Care Tips

Water regularly, especially during dry periods, to maintain consistent soil moisture. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.

Pruning is generally not required for this plant, as it is typically grown as an annual. Remove any dead or damaged stems as needed to maintain appearance.

Easily grown from seed sown directly outdoors after the last frost. Seeds germinate quickly in warm soil. Can also be started indoors a few weeks prior.

Not typically repotted as it is usually grown as an annual. If grown in a container, repotting may be necessary if root-bound, usually into a larger pot.

FAQs

What is Kenaf used for?

Kenaf is primarily cultivated for its strong bast fibers, used in paper, textiles, and ropes. It is also used as a forage crop and for biomass production.

How fast does Kenaf grow?

Kenaf is known for its very fast growth rate, often reaching its mature height within a single growing season, typically 4-6 months.

Does Kenaf need a lot of water?

Kenaf requires consistent moisture, especially during its rapid growth phase. It thrives with regular watering but should not be left in waterlogged conditions.

Can Kenaf be grown in containers?

Yes, Kenaf can be grown in large containers, provided they offer adequate space for its root system and good drainage. Regular watering and feeding are essential.

When is the best time to harvest Kenaf?

Harvest time is typically in autumn, after the plant has reached maturity and before frost. The exact timing depends on the intended use, whether for fiber or seed.

Care Requirements

Light

Prefers full sun for optimal growth and flowering.

Tolerates partial shade.

Water

Water regularly, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged.

Especially during dry periods.

Soil

Prefers well-drained, fertile loam. Tolerates a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils, if drainage is adequate.

Temperature

Thrives in warm temperatures, ideal for summer growth.

Sensitive to frost.

Habitat

Outdoor

Fertilizer

Feed monthly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.

Or use slow-release in spring.

Additional Care Tips

Water regularly, especially during dry periods, to maintain consistent soil moisture. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.

Pruning is generally not required for this plant, as it is typically grown as an annual. Remove any dead or damaged stems as needed to maintain appearance.

Easily grown from seed sown directly outdoors after the last frost. Seeds germinate quickly in warm soil. Can also be started indoors a few weeks prior.

Not typically repotted as it is usually grown as an annual. If grown in a container, repotting may be necessary if root-bound, usually into a larger pot.

FAQs