Hibiscus cannabinus KENAF (10 seeds)

Kenaf, also known as Deccan hemp, is a fast-growing, perennial, and prickly herbaceous plant. It measures approximately 2 meters in height and belongs to the Malvaceae family. It is native to Southeast Asia, Central America, and tropical regions of Africa.

The leaves of this textile hibiscus are alternate, palmate-lobed, dark green in color, and have a slightly rough texture. They measure on average 10 to 12 cm in length.

Its flowers are large and attractive, with petals that are yellow, cream, or sometimes reddish. Flowering generally takes place during the warm months, and the flowers remain in bloom throughout the day.

The fruits of this exotic plant are elongated capsules that usually contain several seeds.

Kenaf seeds from Hibiscus cannabinus are gray, very robust, triangular in shape, and measure 6 millimeters in length.

- Uses:

Due to its diverse advantages, this plant is nowadays referred to as the "plant of the future." It generates significant interest.

Deccan hemp has been cultivated in Egypt for over 3,000 years. It is primarily grown for its fibers, which are extracted from the stems (similar to common hemp). These fibers are long and resistant, making them ideal for manufacturing ropes and jute bags.

Its oil is also used in cosmetics and as industrial lubricants.

- Germination and Sowing:

• The best period to sow Deccan hemp is from the end of May, when temperatures begin to warm up above 15°C.
• Soak the seeds for 12 hours in lukewarm water to break their dormancy.
• Sow them in 10 x 10 cm pots using fine potting soil.
• Cover them with a few millimeters of substrate.
• Water the culture gently by spraying.
• Place the pots in a greenhouse in a warm, humid location where the temperature does not drop below 27°C. Germination generally takes between 4 and 6 weeks after sowing.

- Soil Type / Substrate:

It grows in a well-drained substrate rich in organic matter as well as minerals. Adding compost or well-decomposed manure during planting can improve soil fertility and, consequently, plant growth.

- Exposure / Light:

This variety of textile hemp requires full sun exposure to reach its growth potential. It can be grown outdoors in warm regions or in a greenhouse in cooler climates.

- Temperature / Hardiness:

It grows very well when temperatures range between 20°C and 30°C. It can tolerate slightly higher temperatures, but frost can be fatal. It is recommended to plant this frost-sensitive species only after the last winter frost. Its USDA hardiness zone is 10.

- Watering / Irrigation:

Hibiscus cannabinus needs a constant supply of water, especially during periods of active growth. Regular watering every two days is essential.

- Reproduction / Multiplication:

There are two effective ways to reproduce it: either by seed or by taking 15 cm stem cuttings during the summer period.