Family: Malvaceae
Common Name: Mallow

There are around 30 species of annuals, biennials and perennials in this genus which is native to Europe, North Africa and temperate parts of Asia. These hardy, summer-flowering plants may be smooth or hairy, prostrate or upright. Most have divided, lobed leaves and showy flowers which may be saucer-shaped or funnel-like. These may be clustered or solitary.

Species

M. alcea, zone 4, is a hardy perennial, often grown as an annual. It grows to around 1 m (3 ft) high, with rose-purple flowers.

M. moschata, musk mallow, zone 3, from Europe, is a pretty perennial, useful for herbaceous borders and for naturalizing in wild gardens. Both the leaves and spreading stems are hairy and the early summer flowers are white or rose-mauve. All parts of the plant have a musky odor, particularly in warm conditions. It grows to 1 m (3 ft) high. The form Alba, with white flowers, has a bushy, branching habit.

M. sylvestris, high mallow, zone 5, is a biennial grown as an annual. It is a troublesome weed in some countries, as are some other species of Malva. The foliage is distinctive for its sparse, spreading hairs, and the darkly veined, rose-purple flowers appear from early spring to late summer. It grows to 1 m (3 ft) high or more.

Cultivation

Mallows grow in most garden soils, though the annuals need a sunny aspect. Propagate from seed sown where the plants are to grow. Perennials can be propagated from basal cuttings in spring as they do not divide successfully.

Climate

There are species suited to various climatic zones, but all are very hardy.