Overview:
Hibiscus sabdariffa L. var. bhaghalpuriensis A.Howard & G.Howard, commonly known as Bhagalpur Roselle, is a variety of the hibiscus plant that belongs to the Malvaceae family. This variety is indigenous to India but is also found in other parts of Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean. This plant is known for its many medicinal uses and is also used in the food and cosmetic industries.
Appearance:
Bhagalpur Roselle is an annual herbaceous plant that can grow up to 2 to 3 meters in height. It has dark green leaves that are deeply lobed and are about 10 to 15 cm long. The plant produces large, bright red, fleshy, and juicy calyces that are about 2.5 to 3 cm in diameter. These calyces are used in various traditional and culinary applications.
Common names:
Bhagalpur Roselle is known by many names in different parts of the world. In India, it is called "Roselle" or "Ambadi". In the Caribbean, it is known as "Sorrel" or "Jamaica Sorrel". In West Africa, it is called "Bissap" or "Dah" while in East Africa, it is known as "Karkade". It is also commonly referred to as "Red sorrel" or "Hibiscus flower" in other regions.
Uses:
Bhagalpur Roselle has various medicinal and culinary uses. In traditional medicine, it is used to treat high blood pressure, liver diseases, fever, and constipation. It is also used to promote healthy skin and hair due to its antioxidant properties. The calyces of the plant are used to make a sour, refreshing drink that is popular in many countries, especially during the holiday season. The drink is usually made by boiling the calyces with spices and sugar. The plant is also used in the food industry to add tartness and color to various dishes. Its seeds are also used to extract edible oil that is used for cooking.
Overall, Bhagalpur Roselle is a versatile plant that is used for various purposes. Its tangy and refreshing flavor makes it a favorite among many people, and its many health benefits make it a valuable addition to traditional medicine.Typical Growth Conditions for Hibiscus sabdariffa L. var. bhaghalpuriensis A.Howard & G.Howard
Hibiscus sabdariffa L. var. bhaghalpuriensis A.Howard & G.Howard, commonly known as roselle, is a species of hibiscus that is widely cultivated for its edible calyces, flowers, and leaves. To help these plants thrive and produce high-quality yields, it is essential to provide them with the right growth conditions.
Light Requirements
Roselle plants require ample amounts of sunlight to grow and bear fruit. Ideally, they should be planted in locations that receive full sunlight for at least 6 hours a day. If grown in areas with hot and dry climates, it is essential to provide partial shading to prevent the plants from experiencing heat stress.
Temperature Requirements
Roselle plants thrive in warm and humid environments, and they are typically grown in tropical or subtropical regions. The optimal temperature range for these plants is between 18°C and 30°C (65°F and 85°F). If the temperature drops below 10°C (50°F) or exceeds 35°C (95°F), the plants may experience stunted growth or difficulty in producing fruit.
Soil Requirements
Roselle plants require well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter and nutrients. The soil pH should be between 5.5 and 7.0 for optimal growth. Additionally, it is essential to ensure that the soil does not become waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot and other diseases. Regularly applying fertilizers can help ensure that the plants receive the necessary nutrients to grow and produce high-quality yields.
By providing the ideal growth conditions for Hibiscus sabdariffa L. var. bhaghalpuriensis A.Howard & G.Howard, it is possible to cultivate healthy and productive roselle plants that can provide an abundance of edible and medicinal materials.
Cultivation methods
Hibiscus sabdariffa L. var. bhaghalpuriensis A.Howard & G.Howard, commonly known as roselle, thrives in warm and humid climates. It requires a well-draining soil with good organic matter that ranges between pH 5.5-6.5. The plant must be grown in full sun with at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Roselle can be propagated through seeds sown in a seedling tray or directly in the soil. However, it is essential to ensure the soil is warm and moist before planting.
Watering Needs
Proper watering is essential to the growth and yield of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. var. bhaghalpuriensis A.Howard & G.Howard. The plant needs consistent moisture to grow healthy, but overwatering should be avoided, as it may lead to root rot. Watering should be done twice a week, or depending on the plant's water requirements, soil type, and weather conditions. The aim is to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization
Hibiscus sabdariffa L. var. bhaghalpuriensis A.Howard & G.Howard requires regular feeding to maintain steady and healthy growth. A balanced fertilizer with a nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium ratio of 4-10-4 is essential throughout the growing season. The first application should be done after two weeks of planting, followed by fortnightly or monthly subsequent applications to replenish the essential nutrients in the soil. Organic matter like compost or manure can also be added to improve soil fertility.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to improve the quality and yield of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. var. bhaghalpuriensis A.Howard & G.Howard. The plant should be trained to have a single stem, which improves yield and gives room for easy identification and management of infected or pest-infested branches. Pruning should be done after six weeks of planting by removing the small and weak plants to reduce overcrowding. The plant's lateral branches and dry or diseased flower buds should be removed to stimulate more significant and healthy growth.
Propagation of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. var. bhaghalpuriensis A.Howard & G.Howard
Hibiscus sabdariffa L. var. bhaghalpuriensis A.Howard & G.Howard, commonly known as Roselle, is propagated through seeds and stem cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
Roselle seeds can be directly sown in the soil or started indoors in seed trays. Seeds should be sown at a depth of about 1 cm and spaced at least 10 cm apart. The ideal time to sow Roselle seeds is in late spring or early summer. The soil should be kept moist throughout the germination period, which usually takes 7-21 days. Once the seedlings reach about 10-15 cm in height, they can be transplanted to their final location in the garden.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Roselle can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from healthy plants that are at least one year old. The best time to take cuttings is in late spring or early summer, when the plant is in its active growth phase. Cuttings should be 20-25 cm in length and taken from the tips of the branches. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cutting should be planted in a well-draining soil mix. The soil should be kept moist and the cutting should be placed in a shaded area for the first few days until it starts to develop roots. After about 3-4 weeks, the cutting should have rooted and can be transplanted to its final location in the garden.
Disease Management
Hibiscus sabdariffa L. var. bhaghalpuriensis A.Howard & G.Howard is susceptible to several fungal, viral, and bacterial diseases. Here are some common diseases and ways to manage them:
Anthracnose
Anthracnose is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, flowers, and stems of hibiscus plants, causing them to turn yellow and drop prematurely. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected plant parts and make sure the plant is well-ventilated. Fungicide applications may also be necessary.
Downy Mildew
Downy mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of hibiscus plants, causing yellowing, curling, and eventual death of the affected parts. To manage this disease, remove and dispose of infected plant parts and reduce humidity levels by increasing ventilation. Fungicide applications may also be necessary.
Mosaic Virus
Mosaic virus is a viral disease that affects the leaves of hibiscus plants, causing stunted growth, yellowing, and distortion of the affected leaves. There is no cure for this disease, so it is best to remove and destroy the infected plant to prevent the spread of the virus to healthy plants.
Pest Management
Hibiscus sabdariffa L. var. bhaghalpuriensis A.Howard & G.Howard is also susceptible to several pests, including insect pests and snails. Here are some common pests and ways to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that suck the sap from the leaves and stems of hibiscus plants, causing yellowing and stunted growth. To manage this pest, wash the plant with a high-pressure spray of water or apply insecticidal soap.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of hibiscus plants and excrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which attracts ants and promotes the growth of fungi. To manage this pest, remove them manually with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol, or apply insecticidal soap.
Snails
Snails are common pests that feed on the leaves of hibiscus plants, leaving behind holes and a slimy residue. To manage this pest, handpick and remove them manually, or apply a snail bait that contains iron phosphate.
