Cranberry Hibiscus(False Roselle)  Hibiscus acetosella

This species has striking red leaves similar to a Japanese maple.
 It can be planted in the spring and kept pruned for an attractive
 annual shrub and may be grown as a temporary hedge. 
 Cranberry hibiscus is nematode and insect resistant and
 does well in sandy soil.  The young tender red leaves have
 a tart flavor and are an attractive addition to salads, slaws,
 or stir fries.  In the fall it has pink blossoms.  About thirty 
blossoms can be picked at dusk after they have folded, and 
blended with lime juice and sugar to make a beautiful and 
tasty drink.  The petals add a bright red color rather than 
any special flavor.

This is the flower 

Pictures from our back yard.

Text borrowed from http://www.echonet.org/eln&herbs/

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