Malva Sylvestris

Description

Malva Sylvestris, also known as common mallow, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Malvaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia, but it is widely grown all over the world as an ornamental plant. Malva Sylvestris is known for its beautiful pink to purple flowers that bloom from late spring to early fall. The plant can grow up to 3 feet in height, and its leaves are heart-shaped with serrated edges.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Malva Sylvestris has a bushy growth habit and can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. Its leaves are green, heart-shaped with serrated edges, and can grow up to 4 inches long. The flowers are pink to purple in color, with five petals that are fused at the base. They bloom from late spring to early fall and can grow up to 2 inches in diameter. The plant produces round, button-shaped fruit that contains seeds.

Care Guide

Water

Malva Sylvestris prefers moist but well-drained soil. It is important to water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.

Fertilization

Malva Sylvestris does not require heavy fertilization. A light application of balanced fertilizer once a year is enough to keep the plant healthy.

Soil

Malva Sylvestris prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but it does not do well in heavy clay soil.

Sunlight

Malva Sylvestris prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will not bloom as well in low light conditions.

Hardiness Zones

Malva Sylvestris can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Malva Sylvestris is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by rust, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering.

Habitat

Malva Sylvestris is native to Europe and Asia, but it is widely grown all over the world as an ornamental plant. It can be found growing in meadows, fields, and along roadsides.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Malva Sylvestris a good plant for attracting pollinators?

A: Yes, Malva Sylvestris is a great plant for attracting bees and butterflies.

Q: Can Malva Sylvestris be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Malva Sylvestris can be grown in containers, but it will need a large pot to accommodate its size.

Q: Does Malva Sylvestris require pruning?

A: Malva Sylvestris does not require pruning, but it can benefit from deadheading to encourage more blooms.

Q: Can Malva Sylvestris be propagated from cuttings?

A: Yes, Malva Sylvestris can be propagated from softwood cuttings taken in early summer.

Related Plants

• Malva moschata
• Malva neglecta
• Malva alcea
• Malva verticillata

References

• “Malva Sylvestris.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j910.
• “Malva Sylvestris.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/56946/Malva-sylvestris/Details.
• “Malva Sylvestris (Common Mallow).” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant/malva-sylvestris-common-mallow.