Hibiscus is a large genus of over 200 shrubs, trees, annuals and perennials. Many of the hibiscus are tropical and exotic with colorful, large flowers. All Hibiscus plants are belong to Malvaceae family.

Hibiscus acetosella is a short lived shrub or woody perennial, grown mainly for its striking color of foliage. The foliage shades of copper and burgundy that rival red maples. The flowers and leaves are edible, with a pleasant tart taste. In its native Angola, Red Leafed Hibiscus grows as an herbaceous perennial found along roadsides and in the clearings around native habitation. Also it was cultivated and eaten as a spinach-like green. It can also be eaten in mixed salads. The Latin epitaph is from an old name for sorrel (Oxalis) because the foliage of this hibiscus is somewhat sour to the taste.

The red leaves of Hibiscus acetosella can be ovate or lobed.The newer varieties have been bred to have deeply lobed, finely cut leaves like Japanese maples. The leaves of the varieties are variable, lobed or unlobed, green and red or all red, but those of selections offered as ornamentals have dark maroon, bronze colored, or variegated leaves and stems. The foliage is particularly attractive when backlit and the sun shines through the leaves. Typical hibiscus funnel shaped small flowers are red, up to 4 cm. Flowers are deep crimson to purple, rather similar in color to the foliage. They are borne singly in the leaf axils. Several velvety flowers open each morning and close by noon.  Although Red Leafed Hibiscus is an upright grower, mature plants can split and flop. They can reach 120cm high and 60cm wide. Keeping it compact with periodic pruning can extend its life and keep it blooming.

Hibiscus acetosella needs fairly low maintenance. Their biggest need is water. Plants should be kept moist, but not allowed them to sit in wet soil. Container plants will need daily watering.

Red Leafed Hibiscus is not frost hardy, so must be kept indoors at cold areas in winter. One can also take small cuttings in the fall, to overwinter for next spring. Though this hibiscus is grown as an annual in temperate climates, it will thrive at warm climate for several years in full sun or partial shade with regular watering. Hibiscus acetosella grows best when protected from strong, drying winds and salt spray in a fertile and somewhat moist soil.

Red Leafed Hibiscus is easily grown from seed or cuttings as an annual to supply beautiful palmate leaves reminiscent of a Japanese maple.

Use In Landscape: Gardeners often select Hibiscus acetosella, for its deeply lobed leaves that are a dark maroon or burgundy color. They add texture and color to any garden. Red Leafed Hibiscus makes a nice focal point, where a Japanese maple might be too large. Some of the smaller cultivars make excellent potted plants and can be overwintered in a greenhouse.

The shrubby habit of this plant makes it a good choice for a seasonal hedge, an attractive annual specimen plant, or for contrast in the mixed border or cottage garden. It looks particularly nice with the silver foliage plants like Senecio maritima. Combine darker purple-red types with pink flowers, such as pentas, zinnias or Verbena bonariensis. Plant it in combination with large-leaves plants, like bananas or cannas, for a tropical look. They look wonderful in contrast with ornamental grasses and could even be used in a large container.

Though the flowers only last a day, flower arrangers often use branches from the Hibiscus acetosella for the deep red color and texture of the leaves that resemble those of the Japanese maple. The area beneath the flower called the calyx, which remains after the blossom fades, also adds interest to an arrangement.