The Roselle (Hibiscus Sabdariffa) is a species of hibiscus native to the west Africa. It is used for the production of bast fiber and as an infusion. It its a herb, growing to 2-2,5 m tall. The leaves are deeply three-to five-lobed, 8-15 cm long, arranged alternately on the stems. The flowers are 8-10 cm in diameter, white to pale yellow with a dark red spot at the base of each petal. They have a stout fleshy calyx at the base, 1-2 cm wide, enlarging to 3-3,5 cm. They are fleshy and bright red as the fruit matures. It takes about six months to mature. The plant is considered to have antihypertensive qualities. Hibiscus, specifically Roselle, has been used in traditional medication as a diuretic, mild laxative, and treatment for cardiac, nerve diseases and cancer. The red calyces of the plant are increasing by exported to America and Europe, where they are used as food colorings. Germany is the main importer. It can also be found in markets (as flowers or syrup) in some places such as France, where there are Senegalese immigrant communities. The green leaves are used like a spicy version of spinach. They give flavor to the Senegalese fish and rice dish. In Africa, especially the Sahel, roselle is commonly used to make a sugary herbal tea that is commonly sold on the street. The dried flowers can be found in every market. How do Americans and Europeans use the roselle?

Question

The Roselle (Hibiscus Sabdariffa) is a species of hibiscus native to the west Africa. It is used for the production of bast fiber and as an infusion. It its a herb, growing to 2-2,5 m tall. The leaves are deeply three-to five-lobed, 8-15 cm long, arranged alternately on the stems.

The flowers are 8-10 cm in diameter, white to pale yellow with a dark red spot at the base of each petal. They have a stout fleshy calyx at the base, 1-2 cm wide, enlarging to 3-3,5 cm. They are fleshy and bright red as the fruit matures. It takes about six months to mature.

The plant is considered to have antihypertensive qualities. Hibiscus, specifically Roselle, has been used in traditional medication as a diuretic, mild laxative, and treatment for cardiac, nerve diseases and cancer.

The red calyces of the plant are increasing by exported to America and Europe, where they are used as food colorings. Germany is the main importer. It can also be found in markets (as flowers or syrup) in some places such as France, where there are Senegalese immigrant communities. The green leaves are used like a spicy version of spinach. They give flavor to the Senegalese fish and rice dish. In Africa, especially the Sahel, roselle is commonly used to make a sugary herbal tea that is commonly sold on the street. The dried flowers can be found in every market.

How do Americans and Europeans use the roselle?