TRANG: A new variety of roselle, known as 'Kamphaeng Saen Purple Jumbo,' is gaining attention in Trang Province for its potential to provide higher yields and increased income for local farmers. The Plant Propagation Center 2 is promoting the cultivation of this variety, which boasts larger flowers, more flesh, and an earlier harvest than traditional strains, alongside health benefits for consumers.
According to Thai News Agency, the Plant Propagation Center 2 in Trang Province has dedicated a 3 rai plot for the cultivation and demonstration of the Kamphaeng Saen Purple Jumbo roselle. Over 3,000 plants have been cultivated, and the center invites tourists and farmers to learn about and participate in the harvesting process, which takes place approximately 130 to 150 days after planting. The new variety is being promoted due to its ease of growth, robust yield, and appeal in the marketplace.
Mrs. Wanna Phrombunthong, Director of the Plant Propagation Center 2, highlighted the advantages of the Kamphaeng Saen Purple Jumbo. The variety features a deep reddish-purple color, short and strong stems, and thick, long calyxes, resulting in a high yield of roselle flesh with a sweet and sour taste. The plant's flower, or sepal, is high in anthocyanin, offering antioxidant properties and potential health benefits, such as reducing the risk of heart disease, controlling blood sugar levels, and inhibiting tumor growth. The roselle can be used to make beverages, jams, and dried products, while its leaves and young shoots are suitable for culinary use.
The economic prospects for farmers are promising, with the Kamphaeng Saen Purple Jumbo fetching between 40-60 baht per kilogram, nearly double the price of conventional roselle. The variety's popularity is especially significant in the southern region, where it is traditionally imported from the north, incurring additional costs. By fostering local cultivation, farmers have the opportunity to increase their income. Interested parties are encouraged to contact the Plant Propagation Center 2 for seeds and further information.