Abelmoschus moschatus ssp. tuberosus

Native Rosella

Malvaceae

Form and Size: Herbaceous trailing plant to 2m in diameter, with soft, hairy stems.

Distribution: Across northern Australia; in open woodlands.

Leaves:  Alternate, rough, hairy, heart-shaped or 3-5 lobed, serrated margins, 4-10cm x 4-8.5cm.

Flowers: Hibiscus-like, usually watermelon pink but variable - sometimes white or yellow with a dark centre.

Flowering Period: November to April, on the arrival of the seasonal wet.

Fruit:  Capsules, hairy & woody.

Distinctive Features: Underground tuber, dormant during the dry season. This plant is related to the edible Okra and is eaten by Aborigines.

Cultivation/Notes:  Tuber should be kept dry during the dry season. May be grown from seeds, tubers or stem cuttings.