There are several hundred hibiscus species. Are all edible or at least desirable for tea? Surely not. The one for tea that you want to look for is called roselle in the seed catalogs. It's botanical name is Hibiscus sabdariffa. Easy to grow from seed. Beautiful plant. But if you like in the Frozen North like I do, it will have to be over wintered indoors. If you have more questions about growing, be sure to see us on the Herbs forum as that forum is geared towards growing as opposed to medicinal usage which this groups deals with.

Roses? Any can be used but only those not treated with chemicals. Some varieties produce better hips than others. The Rugosa roses generally produce the largest, fleshiest hips and are my first choice. I have grown the apothecary's rose as well but I find the rugosa an easier keeper with larger fruits.

Got more questions of this nature? I would be happy to answer but I rarely come to this forum. Find me in the Herbs forum - growing/variety questions like this are more than welcome there.

FataMorgana