Description
In the Philippines it is known variously as lagikway, likway, gikway, barakue, or nating saluyot. Its leaves and shoots are eaten as a vegetable, similar to the related saluyot (Corchorus olitorius). The leaves are added to dishes like tinola, sinigang, and pinangat, or eaten in salads.
In Japanese, this plant is known as tororo aoi and is used to make neri, a starchy substance used in making the traditional Japanese paper washi. In Korean, this plant is known as hwang chok kyu and is used to make dak pul, which assists in making hanji (Korean paper).
Germination Guide
🌍 Southeast Asia including India, Central China, and Malesia
Moderate
Abelmoschus manihot, commonly known as edible hibiscus or aibika, is a tropical perennial plant in the Malvaceae family native to Southeast Asia. Prized for its large edible leaves and striking yellow flowers with dark centers, the species is now cultivated worldwide for food and ornamental purposes. The seeds require warm conditions and benefit from mechanical scarification and pre-soaking to enhance germination success.
Germination
Germination time
Expect germination in
7 – 21 days
Temperature
Min 15°C
Ideal 25°C
Max 29°C
Substrate moisture
💧 Medium
Seed Pre-treatment
-
💧
Soaking — 24 hours
Soak seeds in warm water for 12-24 hours before sowing to improve germination
-
🔨
Mechanical scarification
Mechanical scarification (seed nicking) recommended to improve germination rates and speed up sprouting
-
📋
Additional notes
Combine seed nicking with 24-hour warm water soaking for best results. Heat mat accelerates germination significantly
Substrate & Container
Recommended substrate
Loamy, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Suitable for sandy, loamy, or clay soils
Recommended container
Seed trays or individual pots with seed-starting mix
Growing Tips
Use bottom heat (heat mat) to accelerate germination and obtain results in 4-7 days rather than 2-3 weeks. Light is required for germination; avoid covering seeds in dark conditions. Maintain consistently warm temperatures (22-28°C) and moderate soil moisture during germination. Cold temperatures below 15°C inhibit germination. Hard seed coat may require nicking with a file or knife. Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before last frost and transplant outdoors only after all frost danger passes and night temperatures stay above 10°C. Direct seeding is possible in late spring in warm regions. Seedlings emerge from warm seed quickly and grow rapidly. Do not allow seedlings to become chilled or waterlogged.
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