Hibiscus Zinger Herbal Tea

Renee's Garden - This special herbal tea plant has attractive lobed leaves and creamy flowers. Once the pretty blossoms are spent, just pick and air dries the teardrop-shaped flower calyxes to make a delicious ruby-colored tea with a floral, berry aroma and well-balanced, cranberry-like flavor. Antioxidant-packed Hibiscus tea is delicious on its own either steaming hot or iced, or add a touch of lemon, a little honey, or your favorite fruit juice. Also called Jamaican tea or Roselle. 

 Characteristics: 

Instructions - In early spring, start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before outdoor temperatures are reliably in the 50°F range. Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep and 1 inch apart in the seed starting mix. Keep very warm 75 to 80°F and moist but not soggy. Provide a strong light source. When 2 inches tall, transplant seedlings into individual 4-inch pots. Feed with a half-strength liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks until the weather is warm and nights stay above 55°F. Gradually acclimate seedlings to the outdoors. After flowers have finished blooming, harvest the deep-red, teardrop-shaped, calyxes at the base of each blossom. Snap off calyxes that are ready, removing spent flowers if still attached Use fresh, or air-dry for longer storage. Spread in a single layer on paper towels or cotton cloth for 7 to 10 days in a cool, dry place indoors out of heat and humidity. Store in an airtight container. 

Growing Notes: Hibiscus thrives in a sunny, very warm spot in rich and well-drained soil, so add compost or aged manure to the planting bed. Transplant seedlings 8 to 12 inches apart. Pinch tops when 10 inches tall to encourage a bushy, branching form. For containers, choose pots 18" in diameter and 16-18" tall 

• Plant in April-May for cold winters; March for mild winters 
  
• Full Sun 
• Sow seeds 1" apart and 1/2" deep 
• 7-10 days to germinate 
  
• Mature Height: 2-3 feet 
  

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