Kenaf

(Hibiscus cannabinus)

Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Hibiscus cannabinus, commonly known as Kenaf, is an annual or biennial herb, and occasionally a short-lived perennial, native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa. It thrives in a variety of habitats including savannas, grasslands, and areas of disturbed soil. Kenaf can grow to a height of 1.5–3.5 meters with a woody base, and it typically exhibits a rapid growth rate. The plant features large, showy flowers that are 8–15 cm in diameter, with colors ranging from white and yellow to purple; the center of the white or yellow flowers is characteristically dark purple. After flowering, Kenaf produces a capsule fruit about 2 cm in diameter, which contains several seeds.

Kenaf is valued for its fibrous stems used in the production of paper, textiles, and biodegradable plastics. Its flowers add ornamental value, and the plant is sometimes grown in gardens for its aesthetic appeal and as a conversation piece due to its unique appearance. In cultivation, Kenaf requires full sun or part shade and adapts to a range of soil drainage conditions, from slow to fast. It is relatively easy to maintain, but gardeners should be aware that it may require staking due to its height. Kenaf has no major disease problems, but it can be susceptible to root rot in overly wet conditions. It is not typically invasive outside its native range, but care should be taken to prevent unwanted spread in optimal growing conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 2-6 feet
  • Width: 1-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Purple, White, Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention:

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, thriving in savannas, grasslands, and disturbed areas

Other Names

Common Names: Deccan Hemp, Java Jute, Brown Indianhemp, Bokai, Takataka, Uruberwa, 洋麻;鐘麻, Indian-Hemp, Bimli-Jute, Kenaf

Scientific Names: , Hibiscus cannabinus, Hibiscus radiatus, Hibiscus asper, Hibiscus vitifolius, Hibiscus cannabinus var. vulgaris, Hibiscus cannabinus var. viridis, Hibiscus cannabinus var. punctatus, Hibiscus malangensis, Hibiscus verrucosus

GBIF Accepted Name: Hibiscus cannabinus L.