Malva Assurgentiflora

Description

Malva Assurgentiflora is a beautiful and hardy perennial plant that belongs to the mallow family. This plant is also known by the common names of Island Mallow or Malva Rosa. Originating from the Canary Islands, Malva Assurgentiflora is now commonly found in many parts of the world. It has a tall and slender stem, with green leaves that are shaped like a hand. Its flowers are bright pink and have a unique shape, with five petals that are fused together to form a funnel shape.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Malva Assurgentiflora can grow up to 6 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It has a straight stem that is covered in small hairs. The leaves are green and have five to seven lobes that are finger-shaped. The flowers of Malva Assurgentiflora are pink and have five petals that are fused together to form a funnel shape. They bloom in the summer and fall, and they attract bees and butterflies. The fruit of Malva Assurgentiflora is a disc-shaped schizocarp that has several segments.

Care Guide

To keep Malva Assurgentiflora healthy, it requires regular watering, fertilization, and sunlight. The plant prefers to be in well-drained soil and should be planted in a location that receives full sun. It is also important to note that Malva Assurgentiflora is hardy to USDA zones 9 to 11.

Water

Malva Assurgentiflora requires regular watering, especially during the hot summer months. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. It is important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.

Fertilization

Malva Assurgentiflora benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium should be applied every 4 to 6 weeks.

Soil

Malva Assurgentiflora prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.

Sunlight

Malva Assurgentiflora requires full sun to thrive. It should be planted in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.

Hardiness Zones

Malva Assurgentiflora is hardy to USDA zones 9 to 11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Malva Assurgentiflora is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and aphids. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. In addition, Malva Assurgentiflora can be affected by powdery mildew, which can be prevented by ensuring proper air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.

Habitat

Malva Assurgentiflora is native to the Canary Islands but can now be found in many parts of the world, including the United States, Europe, and Australia. It prefers to grow in well-drained soil and in areas that receive full sun.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Malva Assurgentiflora an annual or perennial plant?

A: Malva Assurgentiflora is a perennial plant.

Q: What is the ideal soil pH for Malva Assurgentiflora?

A: The ideal soil pH for Malva Assurgentiflora is between 6.0 and 7.0.

Q: How often should Malva Assurgentiflora be fertilized?

A: Malva Assurgentiflora should be fertilized every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season.

Q: What is the hardiness zone for Malva Assurgentiflora?

A: Malva Assurgentiflora is hardy to USDA zones 9 to 11.

Related Plants

• Malva alcea
• Malva moschata
• Malva sylvestris
• Malva verticillata

References

• “Malva assurgentiflora.” PlantFiles. Accessed May 26, 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/57974/.
• “Malva assurgentiflora.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed May 26, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=276847&isprofile=0&pt=2.
• “Malva assurgentiflora.” Pacific Island Ecosystems at Risk. Accessed May 26, 2021. https://www.hear.org/pier/species/malva_assurgentiflora.htm.