Malva sylvestris aka Mallow

Malva sylvestris is known as common mallow or high mallow. It belongs to the mallow family, Malvaceae. Its native range spans Europe, western Asia, and northern Africa. It is native to Britain and Ireland as well. Garden escapes now grow in many other parts of the world. These include parts of Canada and the United States. Wild plants grow on waste ground, roadsides, and field edges.

This upright plant can live as a short-lived perennial. Gardeners also grow it as an annual or biennial. Garden heights range from 2–5 feet [0.6–1.5 metres]. Plants spread about 1.6–3.3 feet [0.5–1 metre]. Some leaves may stay green through winter. The lower leaves are round or kidney-shaped, with rough hairs. They have three to seven shallow lobes. Leaves higher on the stems have more pointed lobes. The stems carry flowers in the leaf axils.

The flowers have five petals, each with a notched tip. Their pink to rose-purple petals bear darker stripes. Long stalks hold the blooms away from the stems. Missouri Botanical Garden lists flowering from July to September. The RHS describes blooms through summer and autumn. The flowers suit borders, cottage gardens, and wildflower meadows. The RHS also suggests this plant for wildlife gardens. Plants grow from seed and can seed themselves around gardens.

Grow common mallow in sun with soil that drains well. It also grows in part shade, though sun may deepen flower colour. Give it moderate water and keep the soil moist. The RHS lists clay, loam, sand, and chalk as suitable. It also lists acid, neutral, and alkaline soils. Hardiness ratings are USDA zones 4–8 and RHS H5. Plants need little upkeep, and the RHS requires no pruning. Pests seldom cause trouble, but rust can develop in summer. Hollyhock rust may spread from this mallow to nearby hollyhocks.

Leaves, flowers, and young seeds are edible, according to PFAF. Eat leaves raw or cooked, or use them to thicken soups. Raw flowers can serve as a salad garnish. Leaves can also make a tea substitute. PFAF records traditional medicinal uses for the leaves and flowers. These include poultices and remedies for coughs and digestive complaints. Stems provide fibre, while the plant can yield dyes. Leaves may build up nitrates in nitrogen-rich soil. PFAF also warns against use by people with gallstones.