Althaea Cannabina, commonly known as the Palm-leaf marsh mallow, is a perennial herb native to Europe and Asia. The plant belongs to the Malvaceae family and is closely related to hollyhocks and mallows. It has a long history of medicinal use and is known for its soothing properties.
Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Althaea |
Appearance
The Althaea Cannabina plant grows up to 4 feet tall and 3 feet wide. Its leaves are palmate and deeply lobed, resembling those of a marijuana plant, hence the species name “cannabina”. The leaves are green and velvety to the touch, and the stems are hairy. The plant produces large, showy pink or white flowers that bloom from mid-summer to early fall. The flowers have five petals and are arranged in clusters on the top of the stem.
Care Guide
The Althaea Cannabina plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 4-9. Water the plant regularly, especially during dry periods. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring. The plant can be propagated by seed or by division in the fall.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Althaea Cannabina plant is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. It can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. To prevent these problems, keep the plant well-watered and avoid overcrowding. If necessary, treat the plant with an insecticidal soap or fungicide.
Habitat
The Althaea Cannabina plant is native to Europe and Asia, and it can be found growing in wetlands, ditches, and along stream banks. It prefers moist soils and can tolerate occasional flooding. The plant is often grown in gardens for its ornamental value and medicinal properties.
Question and Answer
Q: What are the medicinal uses of Althaea Cannabina?
A: Althaea Cannabina has been used for centuries to treat coughs, sore throats, and other respiratory ailments. It is also known for its soothing properties and has been used to treat skin irritations and digestive issues.
Q: How do you propagate Althaea Cannabina?
A: Althaea Cannabina can be propagated by seed or by division in the fall. To propagate by seed, sow the seeds in the spring in a well-drained soil. To propagate by division, dig up the plant in the fall and separate the roots into smaller sections.
Q: How often should I fertilize Althaea Cannabina?
A: Althaea Cannabina should be fertilized in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to weak growth and pest problems.
Q: Is Althaea Cannabina toxic to pets?
A: Althaea Cannabina is not known to be toxic to pets, but it is always a good idea to keep pets away from plants to prevent them from ingesting any potentially harmful substances.
Related Plants
- Althaea officinalis – Marsh mallow
- Hibiscus moscheutos – Swamp rose mallow
- Malva sylvestris – Common mallow
References
- “Althaea Cannabina.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282621.
- “Althaea Cannabina.” PlantFiles, Dave’s Garden, https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/62838/.
- “Wildflowers of the Adirondacks: Palm-leaf Marshmallow.” Adirondack Ecological Center, SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, www.adirondackflora.org/species/althaea-cannabina/.
