Roselle

Roselle

Scientific Name:
Hibiscus sabdariffa

Family:
Malvaceae

Varieties:

• Default (ID: 50)

Introduction

Hibiscus sabdariffa, commonly known as Roselle, is a species of flowering plant in the family Malvaceae. It is native to Africa, although its exact origin is debated, with some sources suggesting it may also have originated in Asia, specifically between India and Malaysia. Roselle is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions for its edible calyces, which are used to make teas, jams, and other food products, as well as for its fiber. The plant has significant economic and cultural importance, being a major cash crop in countries like China, Sudan, and Thailand.

Characteristics

• Physical Characteristics: Roselle is an annual or perennial herb or shrub that grows up to 2–3.5 meters tall. It has deeply lobed leaves, typically arranged alternately on the stems, and produces flowers that are white to pale yellow with a dark red spot at the base of each petal. The calyces, which are the fleshy sepals surrounding the fruit, turn deep crimson red as they mature.
• Growing Conditions: Roselle thrives in warm, humid climates and requires full sunlight. It can tolerate little shade and is susceptible to frost, making it suitable for USDA hardiness zones 9–10. The plant prefers sandy loam to loamy sand soils with a pH between 5.5 and 6.8.
• Lifecycle: Roselle is a short-day plant, meaning it requires 12 or more hours of darkness to promote flowering. It can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings.

Why is this crop useful for space?

Roselle could be beneficial for space cultivation due to several factors:

• Nutritional Value: The leaves, calyces, and flowers of Roselle are rich in vitamins A and C, iron, and magnesium, making it a nutritious crop for astronauts.
• Low Maintenance: Roselle is easy to grow and requires minimal maintenance, which is advantageous in controlled environments like space.
• Versatility: The plant provides multiple edible parts and can be used for medicinal purposes, offering a versatile resource in space missions.

History of Cultivation in Space (if there is any)

There is no documented history of cultivating Hibiscus sabdariffa in space. However, its potential for space cultivation is based on its nutritional value, ease of growth, and versatility, which align with the requirements for crops in space missions. As space agriculture continues to evolve, plants like Roselle may become candidates for future space-based cultivation experiments due to their adaptability and nutritional benefits.