Anisodontea scabrosa aka Pink Mallow

Anisodontea scabrosa is a shrub in the mallow family, Malvaceae. Its common names include pink mallow and coarse Cape mallow. It comes from South Africa, from the Cape Provinces to KwaZulu-Natal. Kew places it in the subtropical biome. This fast-growing perennial forms a dense, upright bush. In gardens, it reaches 4–6 feet [1.2–1.8 metres] tall. Its spread ranges from 3–6 feet [0.9–1.8 metres].

The branched stems have a woody base and bristly hairs. Young stems are green, then turn reddish brown. Older stems become greyish brown. The green leaves grow alternately along the stems. Each simple leaf has three lobes and uneven teeth. Leaf shape ranges from triangular to oval, with palmate veins. Leaves reach 0.25 feet [0.076 metres] long. Hairs line the veins on both leaf surfaces. The upper surface feels rough, and leaves may feel sticky. Bruised leaves give off a scent.

Small, cup-shaped flowers grow at the leaf axils. They appear alone or in pairs. Each has five pale pink petals with darker veins near the base. The blooms look like small hibiscus flowers. Bees and butterflies visit them. Flowering lasts from spring until frost. In mild southern climates, blooms may appear throughout the year. The black fruit is a schizocarp with nine to fifteen chambers. Both its length and width stay below 0.083 feet [0.025 metres].

Full sun gives the best flower display, though partial shade suits it. It accepts sand or loam and needs soil that drains well. Acid, neutral, and alkaline soils all suit this plant. Once established, it needs modest water and tolerates drought. It also withstands heat and wind. North Carolina State lists USDA zones 8a–11b. Light frost can cause leaf loss, followed by fresh spring growth. A harsh winter may kill the plant.

Use it in borders, hedges, containers, or mass plantings. It also suits coastal sites and pollinator gardens. Its ground-cover role can help hold soil on steep banks. Dense growth allows pruning into a small tree-form topiary. Prune in early spring for a bushier shape and more flowers. Spent blooms fall without deadheading. Pests seldom cause trouble, and disease resistance is good. Mallow rust can occur. Watch for aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Seeds and stem cuttings provide ways to raise new plants.