Hibiscus and Roselle’s plants are quite popular in the brewing of herbal tea. The health benefits that come with the flowers of these plants are rocking the mind of tea lovers.
This article provides a detailed explanation of the difference between hibiscus and roselle plants. The aim is to shade more light on the confusion brought about by the common names and scientific classification.
The main difference between roselle and hibiscus plant is that the former has thick and strong petals while the latter has thin and fragile petals. Let’s find out more together:
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Comparison Table (Hibiscus vs Roselle Plant)
| Basic Terms | Hibiscus Plant | Roselle Plant |
| Bloom | Have thin and fragile petals | Have thick and strong petals |
| Scientific Classification (Species) | Hibiscus rosa-sinensis | Hibiscus sabdariffa |
| Growing Condition | Adequate watering and sunlight | Warm environment, well-drain soil and sufficient sunlight |
| Care and Maintenance | Remove flowers to encourage more bloom. Trim stems in spring. Water less in winter | Trim to promote bushy growth, regular watering and trellis any branches |
| Varieties and Usage | Perennials and tropical hibiscus Widely use in many culinary recipes | Heirloom varieties breed Cultivate for beauty and edible leaves |
What Are Hibiscus Plants?
Hibiscus plants are home gardening and landscaping ornamental plants. The beautiful bloom will make your backyard stand out in the neighborhood.
The ornamental plant is further classified as perennial and tropical hibiscus. Perennial hibiscus plants are hardy and thrive in USDA zone of four.
Tropical hibiscus plants can be potted and grown indoors. But the plant may not flourish in areas with a USDA zone of 10-12.
Both these varieties of hibiscus have a large and conspicuous bloom that makes a great statement in your backyard. The species also need plenty of water and sunlight to promote more bloom formation.
Trimming of branches should be done in spring and less watering in winter. Keep in mind that hibiscus loses a lot of leaves in winter. No need to freak since they will grow back.
Hibiscus Benefits include:
- Boost liver health
- Promote weight loss
- Lower blood pressure
- Contain high antioxidants
- Lower fat levels in the body
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What Are Roselle Plants?
Roselle plant is also known as Florida Cranberry or Jamaica sorrel. The ornament plant usually produces thick and strong petals that make a statement in your backyard.
The bloom is suitable for preparing tea and it helps to bring out the tart calyces taste. The ingredients of the flowers have a lot of medicinal health benefits.
The leaves of roselle plants are edible. Most roselle varieties are available in seeds, cuttings, and young plants. Heirloom varieties are quite popular and can be regrown from seeds.
Roselle is an annual plant and can be grown both outdoor and indoor. The plant is quite sensitive to frost. Hence, not suitable for growing in Northern Climes.
The ornament plant thrives in well-drain and bright sunlight. Trim the leaves to promote bushy growth and water regularly. Remember to stake any branches that threaten to fall.
Roselle benefits include:
- Treatment of cold
- Prevent constipation
- Promote healthy pregnancy
- Maintain healthy gums and teeth
- Eliminate muscle weakness, numbness, and fatigue
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Main Difference between Hibiscus and Roselle Plants
- Roselle are annual plants while hibiscus are perennial plants
- Roselle can be grown indoors and outdoors while hibiscus is grown outdoor
- Hibiscus have thin and fragile bloom while roselle have thick and strong bloom
- Hibiscus belongs to Hibiscus rosa-sinensis whereas roselle belongs to Hibiscus sabdariffa.
Similarities between Hibiscus and Roselle Plants
- Both have health benefits
- Both have light maintenance
- Both have similar tea color ruby-like
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Jamaica Flower the Same as Hibiscus?
Yes. It is one of the species of hibiscus. The dried burgundy-hued petals help to add flavors to the tea and ideal for medicinal purposes.
What Can I Do with Roselle Hibiscus?
The plant is ideal to be used as herb spice. It is usually compatible with many culinary recipes. It adds distinctive flavors and tastes in smoothies or savory sauces.
Does Hibiscus Tea Make You Sleep?
Absolutely. The tart-cherry extract contains melatonin which is great for promoting sleep. The good news is that daily intake of hibiscus tea help to lower blood pressure.
Is Roselle Hibiscus Perennial?
Not really. Roselle hibiscus is an annual plant. It thrives in a well-drain soil and tropical climate. The plant can also be propagated from seeds and require adequate rainfall to bloom.
Can Roselle Grow in Shade?
Roselle hibiscus prefers fertile loamy and well-drain soil. The plant can be grown both indoor and outdoor. Roselle flourishes in an area that received bright sunlight to promote blooming.
How Tall Does Roselle Grow?
It grows about 7 feet tall. The attractive flowers and foliage mark a great statement in your garden. The seeds, leaves, stems, and flowers have great medicinal purposes.
Does Hibiscus Tea Have Side Effects?
Overuse of hibiscus may result in stomach pains, constipation, bloat, nausea, headaches, and painful urination. The effect on blood pressure comes along with dizziness and fatigue.
Can You Drink Hibiscus Tea on an Empty Stomach?
Not allowed. People having digestive issues should never drink hibiscus tea on empty stomach. The best time for hibiscus tea is after having a meal in the evening.
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Comparison Video
In Conclusion
Hibiscus come in different species and Roselle is one of the hibiscus species. The growth and color of the bloom are what help to tell the difference between hibiscus and roselle plants.
The most incredible thing is that these herbs are a great source of hibiscus tea. The ingredient of the leaves, flowers, and stems have numerous medicinal purposes.
Rosella is also known as Jamaica sorrel, Florida cranberry, and red sorrel. The ornamental plant can be grown both outdoor and indoor to improve the appearance of the space.
The main difference between hibiscus and roselle is that hibiscus has thin and fragile petals while roselle has thick and strong petals. We hope this in-depth information was helpful.
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