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Description
Malva Neglecta, commonly known as Common Mallow or Dwarf Mallow, is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the Malvaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia and has been naturalized in many other parts of the world. The plant can grow up to 60cm (24 inches) tall and has a spread of up to 50cm (20 inches). Malva Neglecta produces small pink or purple flowers with five petals that bloom from June to September. The leaves are green and have a distinct shape, with five to seven lobes that are deeply divided.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Malva |
Appearance
Malva Neglecta is a small plant that grows in a clump. It has a shallow root system and produces a few stems that grow upright. The leaves are green and deeply divided into five to seven lobes. The flowers are small, pink or purple, and have five petals. They bloom from June to September and are followed by small, round seed pods. The plant can grow up to 60cm (24 inches) tall and has a spread of up to 50cm (20 inches).
Care Guide
Malva Neglecta is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for growing and caring for your Malva Neglecta:
Water: Malva Neglecta prefers well-draining soil and should be watered regularly during the growing season. However, be careful not to overwater, as this can cause root rot.
Fertilization: Malva Neglecta does not require a lot of fertilizer. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer can be applied once a year in the spring.
Soil: Malva Neglecta prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including clay and sandy soil.
Sunlight: Malva Neglecta prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Malva Neglecta is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Malva Neglecta is generally a healthy plant that is not affected by many pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues to look out for:
Pests: Malva Neglecta can be affected by aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Diseases: Malva Neglecta can be affected by powdery mildew, which is a fungal disease that causes a white powdery coating on the leaves. This can be controlled with fungicides or by removing affected leaves.
Habitat
Malva Neglecta is native to Europe and Asia but has been naturalized in many other parts of the world, including North America. It grows in a variety of habitats, including meadows, fields, and disturbed areas. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of soil types and conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Malva Neglecta an annual or perennial plant?
A: Malva Neglecta is a perennial plant.
Q: How do I propagate Malva Neglecta?
A: Malva Neglecta can be propagated by seed or by division in the spring or fall.
Q: Can Malva Neglecta be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Malva Neglecta can be grown in containers as long as the container has drainage holes and the soil is well-draining.
Q: How often should I fertilize Malva Neglecta?
A: Malva Neglecta does not require a lot of fertilizer. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer can be applied once a year in the spring.
Related Plants
- Malva Alcea
- Malva Moschata
- Malva Sylvestris
- Malva Verticillata
References
- Malva Neglecta – Missouri Botanical Garden
- Malva Neglecta – Plant Finder – Fine Gardening
- Malva Neglecta – Royal Horticultural Society
- Malva Neglecta – Plant Encyclopedia – My Garden Life
