If there are no plants listed, we may be sold out this season.
Malva, commonly known as Mallow, is a versatile and charming addition to the garden.
General Guidelines (Apply to most Malva)
Planting
Growing and Care
Propagation
Pests and Diseases Malva is generally trouble-free, but watch out for:
Popular Malva Species and Varieties
Managing Self-Seeding Many Malva species are prolific self-seeders. This can be desirable for a naturalized look, but if you want to control their spread:
Malva (mal-vuh) Mallow, High Mallow; Malvaceae Family. Hardy annuals, biennials and perennials. All have flowers in the leaf axils, pink or white and alternate leaves. Malva syvestris (sil-vess-triss); 3 foot plant with 1 inch purple rose flowers, naturalized in North America. Malva is a short-lived perennial that is often grown as a biennial. Self-seeds in optimum growing conditions.
If there are no plants listed, we may be sold out this season.
Malva, also known as mallow, is a genus of about 30 species of herbaceous annual, biennial, and perennial plants in the family Malvaceae, native to temperate, subtropical, and tropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Europe. The genus includes the common mallow ( Malva sylvestris), the musk mallow (Malva moschata), and the tree mallow (Malva arborea). Mallow plants are known for their attractive flowers, which come in a variety of colors, including pink, purple, white, and red . They are relatively easy to grow and care for, making them a popular choice for gardeners of all skill levels . Once established, Malva requires minimal maintenance, adding to its appeal for those seeking low-effort beauty in their gardens .
Planting Malva Malva can be easily grown from seed. Sow seeds in spring or fall, about ¼ inch deep in well-drained soil. Space plants about 18 to 24 inches apart . It is worth noting that Malva can reseed itself prolifically throughout the growing season and may become invasive in some settings . To control its spread, deadhead spent blooms diligently.
Caring for Malva Water regularly, especially during dry periods , but avoid overwatering . Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer . Once established, Malva plants are relatively low-maintenance . Deadheading spent blooms not only helps prevent unwanted spreading but also encourages prolonged blooming. Pruning back the plant to the main branches after the first flush of flowers can stimulate new growth and a second bloom .
Ideal Growing Conditions Malva plants prefer full sun to partial shade, ideally receiving at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal flowering . They are adaptable to most soil conditions but thrive in well-drained soil. If your soil is heavy clay, consider amending it with some sand or compost to improve drainage . While Malva generally prefers full sun, the ideal level of sun exposure can vary depending on the specific variety and the local climate . In cooler zones, full sun to partial shade is suitable. However, in areas with hot summers, providing some afternoon shade can be beneficial . Malva tolerates strong winds but dislikes salt exposure .
Common Pests and Diseases Malva plants are generally pest and disease resistant. However, they can be susceptible to certain pests and diseases, including:
Rust can overwinter on debris left from the previous growing season, so it is essential to clean up dead leaves and plant parts in the fall .
Different Varieties of Malva There are many different varieties of Malva, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most popular varieties include:
Uses of Malva Beyond their ornamental value, Malva plants have a history of practical uses, particularly in traditional cuisine. Young mallow leaves have a mild flavor and can be eaten raw as a substitute for lettuce in salads. Older leaves are more palatable when cooked like spinach or other leafy green vegetables. The buds and flowers can also be added to salads for a touch of color and a unique flavor. Even the small fruits that grow on the plants are edible raw . In some cultures, specific Malva species have been cultivated for culinary and medicinal purposes. For example, the Bodos of Northeast India cultivate a subspecies of Malva called lapha, which is a staple in their traditional cuisine .
Propagating Malva Malva can be propagated by seed or by cuttings .
Malva is a beautiful and versatile plant that is easy to grow and care for. With its attractive flowers, low-maintenance nature, and various culinary and medicinal uses, it is a great choice for gardeners of all skill levels. By following the tips in this guide, you can ensure that your Malva plants thrive in your garden and provide you with both visual delight and practical benefits.
Malva sylvestris, a classic beauty! Here is a summary of its key features and benefits:
Appearance:
Growing Conditions:
Benefits:
Interesting Facts:
Malva is a genus of flowering plants commonly known as mallows. Here is a breakdown of its taxonomy:
Important Notes:
The morphology of Malva! Here is a description covering the key features:
General Habit
Leaves
Flowers
Fruit
Key Distinguishing Features
Variation
Keep in mind that there is variation in morphology within the Malva genus. The information above provides a general overview, but specific features can differ slightly between species.
Mallows are generally easy to grow and add a lovely, cottage-garden feel to your space. Here is a guide to cultivating Malva:
Planting
Care
Propagation
Specific Needs
Tips
Here is a calendar of care for Malva plants, highlighting key tasks for each season:
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter
Additional Notes
Remember, these are general guidelines. Specific needs may vary slightly depending on the species of Malva and your local climate.
Malva Species, Groups, Varieties and Cultivars
The world of mallows! It is a diverse genus, so let us explore some of the notable species, groups, varieties, and cultivars:
Key Species
Groups
Varieties
Cultivars
Mallows can be fantastic for mass plantings! Their colorful blooms and varied heights offer great potential for creating beautiful drifts of color. Here are some factors to consider when choosing mallows for mass planting:
1. Species and Cultivars
2. Height and Spread
3. Color Scheme
4. Growing Conditions
5. Maintenance
Examples of Mass Planting Designs
Remember to consider the overall aesthetic you want to achieve and choose mallow species and cultivars that complement each other and the surrounding landscape.
Malva sylvestris, commonly known as High Mallow, is a captivating wildflower native to Europe, Western Asia, and Northern Africa. Its stately presence and vibrant blooms have made it a popular garden addition for centuries.
A Tower of Beauty:
High Mallow is a tall, herbaceous perennial that can reach a height of 2-4 feet. Its sturdy stems are adorned with large, rounded to kidney-shaped leaves, each with 3-7 shallow lobes. The leaves have a rough, hairy texture and range in color from green to gray-green.
The true beauty of High Mallow lies in its stunning, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom from late spring to early fall. These flowers, typically a vibrant rose-purple with darker stripes, are arranged singly or in clusters along the stems. Each flower features five petals that gracefully unfurl, revealing a central cluster of stamens.
High Mallow is a hardy and adaptable plant that thrives in a variety of conditions:
Key Features:
Landscape Uses:
High Mallow is a versatile and captivating plant that adds beauty and charm to any garden. Its stately stature, vibrant blooms, and long-lasting flowering make it a valuable addition for both novice and experienced gardeners.
Malva moschata, commonly known as Musk Mallow, is a delightful European native that brings a touch of old-fashioned charm to gardens with its fragrant flowers and foliage. This herbaceous perennial, belonging to the Mallow family, has naturalized in North America, often gracing roadsides, and open fields.
Fragrant Beauty:
Musk Mallow is a relatively compact plant, reaching a height of 2-3 feet with a spread of about 2 feet. Its beauty lies in the abundance of showy, rose-pink flowers that bloom from early summer to early fall. These blossoms, measuring about 1.5 inches across, boast five notched, wedge-shaped petals and a unique musky fragrance that intensifies when the foliage is crushed.
This easy-to-grow perennial thrives in a variety of conditions, making it a versatile choice for gardens.
Noteworthy Characteristics:
Landscape Uses:
Musk Mallow is a charming and adaptable plant that brings beauty, fragrance, and wildlife to the garden. Its easy care and self-seeding nature make it a favorite for both novice and experienced gardeners alike.
Malva neglecta, often dismissed as a common weed, is a surprisingly versatile and resilient plant with a hidden charm. Also known as Common Mallow, Cheeseweed, or Dwarf Mallow, this herbaceous perennial belongs to the Malvaceae family, which includes beloved plants like hibiscus, okra, and cotton.
A Spreading Beauty:
Common Mallow is a low-growing plant with a sprawling habit. Its branching stems can reach up to 3 feet in length, forming a dense mat of foliage that can spread several feet wide. This makes it an excellent groundcover for areas with disturbed soil.
The heart-shaped leaves, measuring 2.5 by 3 inches, are a key identifying feature. They have 5 or more shallow lobes and are deeply indented at the base. Delicate, papery white to light pink or purple flowers with five petals bloom abundantly throughout the summer. Each flower measures about ¾ inch across and appears on short stalks, often in clusters of 1 to 3.
Adaptable and Resilient:
Common Mallow is a survivor, thriving in a wide range of conditions:
Unique Characteristics:
Landscape Uses:
Common Mallow, though often overlooked, offers numerous benefits to the garden. By understanding its growth habits and managing its spread, gardeners can harness its beauty and resilience to enhance their landscapes.
Here are some characteristics of Malva:
Malva is a member of the Malvaceae family, which also includes hibiscus, cotton, and okra. The genus Malva includes about 25 species of plants, most of which are native to Europe and Asia. However, some species of Malva have been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America, where they can be found growing in waste areas, roadsides, and disturbed habitats.
Malva is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Malva is also drought-tolerant once established. The flowers of Malva are attractive to bees and other pollinators. The leaves and flowers of Malva are also edible and can be used in salads or teas. However, it is important to note that Malva can cause skin irritation in some people.
There are two main ways to plant Malva: directly sowing seeds outdoors or starting them indoors (not recommended). Here is a breakdown of both methods:
Planting Malva Seeds Outdoors (Preferred):
Starting Malva Seeds Indoors (Less Successful):
Here are some additional tips for planting Malva:
By following these tips, you should be successful in planting and growing Malva in your garden.
There are about 25 species of Malva plants, most of which are native to Europe and Asia. Here are some of the popular varieties:
These are just a few of the many varieties of Malva available. With their wide range of sizes, flower colors, and bloom times, Malva plants can be a valuable addition to any garden.
Here is how to care for your Malva once it is planted in your garden:
Sunlight and Soil:
Watering:
Feeding:
Pruning and Deadheading:
Pests and Diseases:
Additional Tips:
By following these simple care tips, you can enjoy the beauty of Malva in your garden for many years to come.
Malva definitely attracts pollinators! Here is why:
Overall, the combination of colorful blooms, nectar production, accessible pollen, and flower shape makes Malva a very attractive plant for a variety of pollinators. Adding Malva to your garden can not only beautify your space but also support the vital ecological role that pollinators play.
While Malva is generally a low-maintenance plant and resistant to most pests and diseases, there are a few occasional threats to watch out for:
Pests:
Diseases:
Let us look at how to manage these issues:
Pest Management:
Disease Management:
Here are some additional tips to keep your Malva healthy:
By following these tips and keeping an eye out for potential problems, you can help your Malva plants thrive and enjoy their beautiful flowers throughout the season.
You can use Malva in floral arrangements, but with some considerations:
Pros:
Cons:
Here are some tips for using Malva in floral arrangements:
Alternatives for longer-lasting arrangements:
If a long vase life is a major concern, here are some alternative flower choices with similar aesthetics:
Ultimately, the decision of whether to use Malva in your arrangements depends on your desired aesthetic and how much effort you are willing to put into extending their vase life.
The invasiveness of Malva depends on the specific species. Here is the breakdown:
Here are some resources to help you identify the Malva species you have and determine its invasive potential in your location:
If you are concerned about planting an invasive species, there are many other beautiful Malva varieties that are not considered invasive. These can be great choices for your garden and will help support biodiversity.
The best time to propagate Malva depends on the method you choose:
Propagation by Seed:
Propagation by Division (not recommended):
Here is a quick summary:
Propagation Method |
Best Time |
Seed (outdoors) |
Spring (after frost danger) |
Seed (outdoors, mild winters) |
Fall |
Division (not recommended) |
Early spring or fall |
There are several benefits to planting Malva in your garden, both aesthetic and functional:
However, there are also a few things to consider:
Overall, Malva is a beautiful and versatile flowering plant that can bring a variety of benefits to your garden. Just choose the right variety and consider its maintenance needs before planting.