Roselle, bissap, zobo or karkade: one product, many names

If you look for dried hibiscus suppliers in other countries, you will find the same product under very different names. Knowing them helps you search better, understand offers and avoid confusing it with other products.

One product

All these names refer to the dried calyx of Hibiscus sabdariffa, the plant known in botany as roselle.

Names by region

• Flor de Jamaica: Mexico and Central America.
• Zobo: Nigeria, where it is also the name of the drink.
• Bissap: Senegal and other West African countries.
• Karkade: Egypt and Sudan.
• Sorrel: the Caribbean.
• Dried hibiscus flowers or roselle: the usual names in international trade.

What it is used for

In all these countries people make a red, tart drink, served cold or hot: agua de Jamaica, zobo or bissap. Industry also uses it in teas and infusions, jams, syrups and sauces, as a natural colourant and flavouring, and in health products.

How it is declared at customs

Dried calyces are usually declared under heading 1211.90 of the Harmonized System. The exact national code varies by country (Mexico, for example, uses 1211.90.99), so confirm it with your customs broker.

What we sell

We export dried hibiscus from Nigeria: whole Grade A calyces in plain 25 kg bags, ready for you to resell or repack under your own brand.

Questions about the product or your market? Write to us in English or Spanish.

Sources

• Our website: FAQ
• CBI (Netherlands): hibiscus in the European market