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Description
Malva Alcea or hollyhock mallow is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the Malvaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia, but it is now widely grown in gardens and landscapes around the world. It is a perennial plant that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall and has pink or purple flowers that bloom from mid-summer to early autumn. Malva Alcea is known for its medicinal properties and has been used for centuries to treat various ailments.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Malva |
Appearance
Malva Alcea has a tall, upright growth habit and can reach a height of 1.5 meters. The leaves are large, heart-shaped, and have a fuzzy texture. The flowers are pink or purple and have five petals that are fused together at the base. They bloom from mid-summer to early autumn and are about 2.5 cm in diameter. The fruit is a disc-shaped schizocarp that contains several seeds.
Care Guide
Malva Alcea is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. Here are some care tips to keep in mind:Water: Malva Alcea needs regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. Water deeply once a week to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.Fertilization: Malva Alcea does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring to promote healthy growth.Soil: Malva Alcea prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types but does best in loamy soil.Sunlight: Malva Alcea prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive.Hardiness Zones: Malva Alcea is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Malva Alcea is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it can be susceptible to the following issues:Pests: Aphids, spider mites, and Japanese beetles can occasionally feed on Malva Alcea. Use an insecticidal soap to control infestations.Diseases: Malva Alcea can be affected by powdery mildew, rust, and fungal leaf spots. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Malva Alcea is native to Europe and Asia and prefers temperate climates. It can be found growing in meadows, fields, and along roadsides. It is also commonly grown in gardens and landscapes for its ornamental value.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Malva Alcea a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, Malva Alcea has been used for centuries to treat various ailments, including sore throat, cough, and digestive issues.Q: Can Malva Alcea be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Malva Alcea can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate its root system.Q: How often should Malva Alcea be fertilized?
A: Malva Alcea does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring and again in mid-summer.Q: Can Malva Alcea tolerate drought?
A: Malva Alcea prefers moist soil but can tolerate occasional drought. Water deeply during extended dry periods.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that belong to the Malvaceae family:
- Alcea rosea (hollyhock)
- Malva moschata (musk mallow)
- Abutilon (flowering maple)
- Gossypium (cotton plant)
References
- “Malva Alcea.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 23, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281308.
- “Malva Alcea.” Plants for a Future. Accessed August 23, 2021. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Malva+alcea.
- “Hollyhock Mallow (Malva Alcea).” Gardenia.net. Accessed August 23, 2021. https://www.gardenia.net/plant/malva-alcea-hollyhock-mallow.
