Contents
Description
Malva Olbia, also known as Pink Mallow, is a beautiful herbaceous plant with pink flowers that bloom in the summer. It belongs to the Malvaceae family, which is one of the largest flowering plant families, and is native to Europe and Asia. It is a fast-growing plant that can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, making it an ideal plant for borders, rock gardens, and container planting.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Malva |
Appearance
Malva Olbia has soft green leaves that are palmate with five to seven lobes. The leaves are approximately 4 inches long and 3 inches wide, and have a velvety texture. The plant produces beautiful pink flowers that are approximately 1.5 inches in diameter. The flowers have five petals and a dark purple center. The blooms appear in summer and last until the first frost. The plant produces numerous flowers on long stems that rise above the foliage, making it a beautiful addition to any garden.
Care Guide
Water: Malva Olbia prefers well-draining soil and needs regular watering during the growing season. It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: The plant benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer every four weeks to promote healthy growth and blooming.
Soil: Malva Olbia prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a variety of soil types, but it is important to ensure that the soil is not waterlogged as this can lead to root rot.
Sunlight: Malva Olbia thrives in full sun or partial shade. It is important to ensure that the plant receives at least six hours of sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones: Malva Olbia is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Malva Olbia is generally a hardy plant that is not prone to many pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. To prevent these diseases, ensure that the plant has good airflow and is not overcrowded. Spider mites and aphids can also be a problem, especially during hot, dry weather. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Malva Olbia is native to Europe and Asia, where it grows in a variety of habitats such as meadows, fields, and roadsides. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of temperatures and weather conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should Malva Olbia be fertilized?
A: Malva Olbia benefits from regular fertilization every four weeks during the growing season.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Malva Olbia?
A: Malva Olbia is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Q: How can I prevent fungal diseases in Malva Olbia?
A: To prevent fungal diseases, ensure that the plant has good airflow and is not overcrowded. You can also apply a fungicide if necessary.
Q: What pests are common on Malva Olbia?
A: Spider mites and aphids can be a problem, especially during hot, dry weather. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Related Plants
- Malva moschata
- Malva sylvestris
- Malva verticillata
- Malva alcea
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Malva olbia. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=k410
- RHS. (n.d.). Malva olbia. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/139251/malva-olbia/details
- University of Wisconsin-Madison. (n.d.). Malva olbia. Retrieved from https://hort.uwex.edu/articles/malva-olbia/
