Althaea officinalis
marsh mallow
A native, herbaceous perennial with softly hairy, grey-green leaves and stems. Small clusters of saucer-shaped, lilac-pink flowers appear on tall flowering stems from mid-summer to early autumn
Other common names
bismalvaguimauve
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mauve
mortification root
white mallow
wymot
wymote
Synonyms
Althaea taurinensis DC., non C.A. Mey.Althaea kragujevacensis
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Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
1–1.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Poorly–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Pink | Green | ||
| Autumn | Pink | Green | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or East–facing or North–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Malvaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Althaea are annuals or perennials with strong, wiry stems and broadly oval, lobed leaves. Sprays of small, pink to bluish-purple, five-petalled flowers are produced from summer to autumn
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Europe
How to grow
Cultivation
Easy to grow and tolerates a wide range of conditions, though does best in fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown in mid-summer
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildlife gardens
Pruning
Cut down to ground once flowering is over
Pests
May be susceptible to flea beetles
Diseases
May be affected by a rust
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