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Description
Malva Punctata, commonly known as the spotted mallow, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Malvaceae family. It is native to North America and can grow up to 3 feet tall. The plant has a stout stem with small hairs and produces leaves that are lobed and heart-shaped with jagged edges. The flowers of Malva Punctata have five petals and come in shades of pink or purple. The plant blooms from June to September and produces fruits that resemble cheese wheels.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Dicotyledonae |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Malva |
Appearance
Malva Punctata is a beautiful plant that can enhance the aesthetic appeal of any garden. The plant grows up to 3 feet tall and has a stout stem with small hairs. The leaves of the plant are lobed and heart-shaped with jagged edges. They are arranged alternately on the stem and have a velvety texture. The flowers of Malva Punctata have five petals and come in shades of pink or purple. They are about 1 inch in diameter and bloom from June to September. The fruits of the plant resemble cheese wheels and are about 0.5 inches in diameter.
Care Guide
Malva Punctata is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of growing conditions. Here are some care tips for this beautiful plant:- Water: Malva Punctata prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant regularly, especially during dry spells.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer to the plant once a month during the growing season.- Soil: Malva Punctata prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH of the soil should be between 6.0 and 7.0.- Sunlight: Malva Punctata prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Malva Punctata is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Malva Punctata is generally a hardy plant that is not susceptible to many pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues to watch out for:- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing of the leaves and webbing on the plant. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control spider mites.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a powdery white coating on the leaves and stems of the plant. Use a fungicide to control powdery mildew.
Habitat
Malva Punctata is native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, fields, and roadsides. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of growing conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the blooming period of Malva Punctata?
A: Malva Punctata blooms from June to September.
Q: How tall can Malva Punctata grow?
A: Malva Punctata can grow up to 3 feet tall.
Q: What is the preferred growing condition for Malva Punctata?
A: Malva Punctata prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged and full sun.
Q: What are some common pests and diseases of Malva Punctata?
A: Some common pests and diseases of Malva Punctata include aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew.
Related Plants
– Malva Alcea- Malva Moschata- Malva Sylvestris- Malva Verticillata
References
– “Malva Punctata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed on 24 June 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279014&isprofile=0&- “Spotted Mallow (Malva Punctata).” Illinois Wildflowers. Accessed on 24 June 2021. https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/sp_mallowx.htm
