Malva neglecta aka Common Mallow

Malva neglecta is common mallow, also called dwarf mallow or cheeseweed. It belongs to the mallow family, Malvaceae. Its native range includes the Canary Islands, Morocco, and Europe. It extends through Central Asia to the western Himalaya. The species also grows in Canada, South America, and much of the United States. It occurs in temperate regions and can grow as an annual or perennial.

This low, branching herb spreads across the ground in leafy mats. Its stems can reach 3 feet (0.9 metres) long. Mats may spread several feet wide where space allows. White hairs cover the stems, which have no scent. The green to gray-green leaves grow alternately on long stalks. Each blade is round or kidney-shaped, with a deep basal notch. Five or more shallow lobes divide the blade. Rounded teeth edge the leaves, and short hairs give them a soft feel.

The flowers may be white, pale pink, or pale purple. Each bloom has five petals with notched tips. These notches can make the flower seem to have ten petals. Short flower stalks carry one to three blooms. Flowering often lasts two to three months in summer. Some plants bloom in late spring or early fall. Bees and butterflies visit the flowers. The flat, round fruit resembles a small cheese wheel. Each fruit holds about ten to twelve seeds.

Common mallow grows in disturbed ground, fields, and coastal sites. It also grows on dry walls and in garden beds. Full sun suits it, though it tolerates partial shade. It prefers fertile loam with good drainage. It accepts sand, clay, and acidic to alkaline soils. Moist to slightly dry ground suits it, and it tolerates drought. Some lower leaves may die during dry spells. North Carolina State lists it for USDA zones 4–8. Rust fungus can attack it, while rabbits tend to leave it alone.

Its leaves and young shoots can be eaten raw or cooked. Their mucilage thickens soups but can give an unwelcome texture. Young seeds are edible; mature seeds need cooking. Leaves may collect high nitrate levels in nitrogen-rich soil. Traditional uses include soothing poultices and plant dyes. Despite these uses, it can become a persistent weed. Thick seed coats help seeds remain in soil. Woody taproots make established plants hard to remove. It can survive mowing, and some states consider it invasive.