Malope trifida aka Mallow Wort

Malope trifida is an annual in the mallow family, Malvaceae. Gardeners also call it mallow wort or large-flowered mallow wort. Its native range includes south-central Portugal and southwestern Spain. It also grows wild in Malta and northwestern Africa. Records place it beyond this range in Britain and France. These also include central Europe and southern Russia. Kew places it in the subtropical climate zone.

This upright plant has stout stems and bright green leaves. RHS gives a garden height of 1.6–3.3 feet (0.5–1 metre). Its spread reaches about 1.6 feet (0.5 metres). NC State reports taller plants reaching 5 feet (1.5 metres). The leaves range from broadly egg-shaped to almost round. Their edges have teeth, and some have three to five lobes. Sources differ on their surface texture. RHS describes hairy leaves, while NC State describes almost hairless leaves. The stems lack scent.

Flowers open from summer into autumn, with care extending the display. Each bloom has five petals forming a broad cup or trumpet. NC State describes flowers about 0.21 feet (0.064 metres) long. Wild flowers have a deep purple-red shade. Garden plants also bear white, pink, or red flowers. Purple veins mark the petals, with bright green sepals beneath. Bees and butterflies visit the flowers. The blooms also suit cutting for use indoors.

Grow mallow wort in full sun for its preferred light conditions. It can also cope with some shade. Choose soil with moderate fertility that drains well but stays moist. RHS lists chalk, clay, loam, and sand as suitable soils. It accepts acid, neutral, and alkaline conditions. Plants cope with some dryness but need water when rain fails. Sow seed in spring after the last frost. Support stems where wind leaves them exposed. Remove spent blooms to help new flowers form. RHS rates it H4; NC State lists USDA zones 5–10.

Mallow wort suits borders, bedding, and groups beside paths. It also fits cottage gardens, courtyards, and coastal planting schemes. Its flowers give it a place in wildlife and cutting gardens. NC State rates its upkeep as low and growth as moderate. RHS warns that aphids can cause trouble and rust may occur. These risks qualify NC State's report of no known pest or disease problems.