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Description
Malvella Lepidota, also known as the False Mountain Hollyhock, is a plant species that belongs to the Malvaceae family. This species is native to the southwestern United States and Mexico, and can be found in desert habitats, rocky slopes, and canyons. It is a perennial plant that grows up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, and blooms from late spring to early fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Malvella |
Appearance
Malvella Lepidota has a distinct appearance that sets it apart from other plant species. Its leaves are small, oval-shaped, and gray-green in color, with a slightly fuzzy texture. The flowers are the most eye-catching feature of this plant, with their bright pink or magenta color, and their cup-shaped petals. The flowers bloom in clusters at the end of long stems, and can grow up to 2 inches in diameter. The plant itself has a bushy, rounded shape, and can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide.
Care Guide
Malvella Lepidota is a relatively low-maintenance plant that can thrive with minimal care. Here are some tips for keeping your False Mountain Hollyhock healthy:
- Water: This plant prefers well-draining soil, so make sure to water it deeply and infrequently, rather than giving it frequent shallow waterings.
- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to help promote healthy growth and flowering.
- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly alkaline in pH. If your soil is too acidic, you can add lime to raise the pH.
- Sunlight: False Mountain Hollyhocks prefer full sun, but can tolerate some shade. If your plant isn’t getting enough sunlight, it may become leggy and not bloom as well.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10, and may not survive cold winters in other zones.
Common Pests & Diseases
While Malvella Lepidota is generally resistant to pests and diseases, there are a few issues that can arise:
- Aphids: These tiny insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth and yellowing leaves. You can control them with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves and flowers. You can prevent it by making sure the plant has good air circulation, and treating it with a fungicide if necessary.
- Root Rot: This is caused by overwatering or poorly-draining soil, and can cause the plant to wilt and die. Make sure the soil is well-draining, and don’t water the plant too frequently.
Habitat
Malvella Lepidota is native to the southwestern United States and Mexico, where it can be found in rocky slopes, canyons, and desert habitats. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun, and can tolerate drought conditions. It is a hardy plant that can survive in temperatures as low as 10°F.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Malvella Lepidota a good plant for beginner gardeners?
A: Yes, this plant is relatively easy to care for and can thrive with minimal maintenance.
Q: Can Malvella Lepidota be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container is large enough to accommodate its root system.
Q: How often should I fertilize Malvella Lepidota?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Q: Can Malvella Lepidota be grown indoors?
A: While this plant prefers full sun, it can tolerate some shade and can be grown indoors as long as it receives enough sunlight.
Related Plants
- Malvella leprosa
- Malvella sagittifolia
- Malvella sherffii
References
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=MALE2
- https://calscape.org/Malvella-lepidota-()
- https://www.highcountrygardens.com/perennial-plants/malvella/malvella-lepidota
