Common Mallow
Malva sylvestris
An herbaceous plant characterized by lobed, rounded leaves with serrated margins and a hairy texture, growing on erect or spreading stems.
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Water
- Moderate watering, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Drought-tolerant once established.
- Growth
- Herbaceous perennial growing as an upright or sprawling plant, reaching a mature height of 2 to 4 feet with a spread of 1 to 2 feet.
Care instructions
Provide full sun to partial shade with moderate, regular watering. Plant in well-draining soil and apply a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Growing details
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Watering
Moderate watering, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Drought-tolerant once established.
Soil
Prefers loose, well-draining loam or sandy soil with a neutral pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
Hardiness zone
USDA Hardiness Zones 4 through 8
Growth habit
Herbaceous perennial growing as an upright or sprawling plant, reaching a mature height of 2 to 4 feet with a spread of 1 to 2 feet.
Bloom season
Blooms from late spring through late summer, producing distinctive pink to purple flowers with dark veins.
Propagation
Propagated primarily by seeds sown directly in spring or by stem cuttings.
Common pests & issues
Susceptible to rust fungus, powdery mildew, and aphids; prevent by ensuring good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Similar species
Marsh Mallow (Althaea officinalis), which features velvety-soft grey-green leaves and paler flowers.