The calyces are used to make cold and hot beverages in many of the world's tropical and subtropical countries. In China the seeds are used for their oil and the plant is used for medicinal properties. The leaves and powdered seeds are eaten in West Africa. It tolerates poor soil, and is often grown as a supplemental rather than a primary crop. In addition, it requires 13 hours of sunlight during the first 4-5 months of growth to prevent premature flowering.
Dry periods can be withstood and are desirable in the last months of growth.
Rain or high humidity during the harvest time and drying can downgrade the quality of the calyces and reduce the yield. Planting Hibiscus sabdariffa is very sensitive to changes in the length of day. This photoperiodic quality of blooming, when the days become shorter, require the planting time to be set according to the day length and not according to the rainfall requirements. Hibiscus is a deep-rooted crop so deep plowing is recommended in preparing the seedbed. To produce a large calyx 1,000-2,000 pounds of manure are added per acre.