African Rose Hibiscus acetosella - Stunning Cranberry Hibiscus with Unique Foliage

Add exotic flair to your garden with the African Rose Hibiscus, also known as Cranberry Hibiscus or Hibiscus acetosella. Native to East Africa, this showy perennial (or annual in colder zones) features deeply lobed, maple-like leaves in bold shades of red and purple — a striking contrast against green foliage and ornamental grasses.

Name(s): Hibiscus acetosella, African Rose Hibiscus, Cranberry Hibiscus

Flower Color: Deep pink

Bloom Time: Summer to late fall, depending on climate zone

Foliage: Herbaceous,. 

Height/Spread: 12 inches to 18 inches x 12 inches to 18 inches indoors. 24 inches to 36 inches outdoors.

Climate Zones: 9, 10, 11

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Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect light.

Soil Condition: Well-drained, chunky mix, pH 6.5 to 7.5

Features: The foliage of Cranberry Hibiscus (Hibiscus acetosella) is the real showpiece—more dramatic than the flowers themselves. The leaves are deep wine-red to burgundy, sometimes shading into mahogany or near-black depending on sun and soil. Their shape is maple-like, with sharply serrated, fingered lobes that give the plant a delicate, almost lace-cut silhouette.

In strong sunlight, the color intensifies—a fierce, jewel-dark crimson that borders on gothic.
In partial shade, the leaves soften to plum and garnet, holding a velvety sheen.

When the breeze moves through it, the foliage flickers like stained glass—light catching on those thin, translucent edges. It has presence—moody, elegant, and a bit wild—just the sort of plant that looks like it belongs in the courtyard of an old church cloister or a kitchen garden where herbs and ornament

Uses: The young leaves are edible and pleasantly tart, with a mild cranberry-like tang (hence the name). They’re excellent: in salads for color and brightness, sandwiches or wraps, Can be added to stir-fries at the very end. Can be steeped as a tea—the infusion turns a soft rose color.

Cranberry Hibiscus provides bold, dark foliage that contrasts beautifully with silver, chartreuse, or greens.

Use it in:

• Kitchen gardens as an edible ornamental

• Containers, where its color steals the show

• Cottage, tropical, and “apothecary garden” designs

It is a fast grower, often reaching 3–6 ft in one growing season in warm climates.

• Flowers support bees and beneficial insects

• Late-season nectar is valuable when many plants have finished blooming

Traditionally, the plant has been used in herbal teas tied to digestive comfort and cooling the body, similar to other hibiscus species.
(As always: culinary use is fine, but one should avoid making medical claims in sales copy.)

Comments: While known for its leaves, the African Rose Hibiscus also produces small, deep crimson flowers in late summer to fall — a charming complement to its vibrant foliage.

Best grown in full sun with moist, well-draining soil. Can be grown as a perennial in warm zones or as an annual in colder climates. Pinch back the stems to encourage bushier growth.

Whether you're designing a cottage garden, tropical-themed landscape, or just want a standout container plant, Hibiscus acetosella is a low-maintenance, high-impact addition.

Read: Master Hibiscus Acetosella: Essential Steps for Thriving Growth