Abelmoschus manihot (L.) Medik.

Growth Form and Size

Under favorable growing conditions, aibika (scientific name Abelmoschus manihot (L.) Medik.) can grow as a subshrub or shrub reaching over 3 metres (10 ft) in height.

Native Distribution

It is a tropical plant native to the Indian subcontinent, Indochina, central and southern China, Malesia, New Guinea, and Queensland.

Propagation and Disease Resistance

Aibika is easily propagated through cuttings and is relatively resistant to disease.

Cultivation Practices

Because of these traits, it is widely cultivated, and is often grown along garden borders or as an intercrop in traditional tropical gardens.

Horticultural Popularity

Its growth habit, combined with its nutritional value, makes it popular for home gardening and horticulture.

Non-Culinary Uses Overview

Beyond its culinary uses, aibika has other applications in different cultures.

Mucilage Application in Papermaking

Its mucilage is used in traditional papermaking.

Use in Japanese Washi Paper Production

In Japan, where it is called tororo aoi, it is used to produce neri, a starchy substance needed for making traditional Japanese washi paper.

Use in Korean Hanji Paper Production

In Korea, it is known as hwang chok kyu, and is used to make dak pul, an ingredient for producing Korean hanji paper.