Malva sylvestris aka Mallow

Malva sylvestris, commonly known as common mallow, is a species in the mallow genus Malva and is considered the type species for the genus. It is a vigorous plant that grows freely in meadows, hedgerows, and fallow fields. The plant can reach heights of 3-4 feet and has showy mauve-purple flowers with dark veins. Its leaves are lobed and toothed, and it is often grown as an annual or biennial. This woody-based, short-lived perennial produces clusters of very pale violet flowers streaked with deep purple from early to late summer. It can grow up to 1m high in flower and has green leaves. On the other hand, as an annual herb, Malva sylvestris can reach heights of up to 1.2m with an erect stem. Its round, palmate leaves are alternately arranged, and its large flowers have bright pink petals with longitudinal dark stripes and notched apexes. The flowers bloom from July to September, and the fruit splits into 9-11 seeds. Propagation of Malva sylvestris is primarily through seeds, which germinate well without pre-sowing preparation. To ensure the plant's continuity, it is necessary to leave 3-4 copies for seeds annually. The flowers of this plant contain anthocyanins malvin and malvidin, which are valuable food colorants that change color depending on the acidity of the environment. Additionally, the seeds contain up to 18% fatty oil. Apart from its ornamental qualities, Malva sylvestris has medicinal uses. Its herb preparations have bronchodilator, enveloping, anti-inflammatory, and mild laxative effects. Infusions of the herb are prescribed for diseases of the upper respiratory tract, especially dry barking cough. It can also be used for inflammation of the gastric tract, colitis, enteritis, enterocolitis, and as a gargle for diseases of the mouth and throat. Externally, it is used for compresses for boils, poorly healing wounds, eczema, and dermatoses, as well as for sitz baths to relieve hemorrhoids. In some regions, it is used for poultices for bee stings. Overall, Malva sylvestris is a useful plant that not only adds beauty to its surroundings but also offers medicinal benefits for various ailments.