Malva sylvestris mauritiana

Common Name: Tree Mallow

Nicknamed "Tree Mallow", M. sylvestris mauritiana has foliage that closely resembles the Hollyhock, being large and coarse in texture. Up to 3 inch wide, rich purple flowers with plum veins are produced in abundance from late summer to late fall. It makes such a statement in the garden that all of your visitors will ask what it is.

Heat and drought are not a problem for this perennial. Though it is sometimes short-lived, Malva will self-seed readily assuring years of blooms.

Height:

3.0-5.0 Feet

Spread:

18.0-24.0 Inches

Hardiness Zones:

4,5,6,7,8

Flower Color:

Purple shades

Foliage Color:

Green shades

Sunlight:

Full Sun (> 6 hrs. Direct Sun)

Water Requirements:

Low Water Needs Average Water Needs

Soil Quality:

Average Soil Quality Fertile Soil Quality

Soil Chemistry:

Neutral Soil (pH = 7.0) Alkaline Soil (pH > 7.0)

Bloomtime:

Late Summer Early Fall Mid Fall

Attracts Wings:

Attracts Butterflies

Critter Resistant:

Rabbit Resistant

Growth Rate:

Medium

Garden Style:

Eclectic

Other Features:

Border Plant Cut Flower Cut Foliage Drought Tolerant Mass Planting Specimen Focal Point

Origin:

Not Native to North America

A shorter cousin of the Hollyhock, Malva is easy to grow and will happily fill in the empty spaces in your garden. It enjoys full sun and well-drained soils with a moderate to high pH. By pinching back the tips of this plant when it reaches 12 inches tall, shorter, more compact plants will be produced. If no pinching is done, prepare to stake this plant. Insects find Malva especially tasty, so some control measures may be necessary.

Characteristics