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ShrubsSynonym

Lavatera olbia 'Red Rum'

tree mallow [Red Rum]

A semi-evergreen subshrub to around 1.5m high, with lobed, slightly wrinkled grey-green leaves on dark red-brown stems. Clusters of deep reddish-pink flowers with darker veins are produced at the tips of the stems from early to late summer

Synonyms
Malva × clementii 'Rigrum'
Lavatera olbia 'Red Rum'
see moreLavatera × clementii 'Rigrum'
Lavatera thuringiaca 'Red Rum'
Lavatera thuringiaca 'Rigrum'
Lavatera × clementii 'Red Rum'
Lavatera thuringiaca Red Rum
Lavatera × clementii Red Rum
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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
1–1.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green Grey Silver
Summer Pink Red Green Grey Silver
Autumn Green Grey Silver
Winter Green Grey Silver
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H5
Botanical details
Family
Malvaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Semi evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Genus

Malva can be annuals, biennials or perennials, with rounded, often palmately lobed leaves and 5-petalled, open funnel-shaped flowers in the leaf axils or in terminal racemes

Name status

Trade

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How to grow

Cultivation

Thrives in light, moderately fertile, well drained soil in full sun; may need support if grown in richer soils (see staking perennials). Shelter from cold winds in areas prone to frosts. May die back to a woody base in cold winters

Propagation

Propagate by softwood cuttings from stems or basal shoots in early summer. Plants can be short-lived so regular propagation is recommended. As this plant is protected by Plant Breeders' Rights, any propagation should be for personal rather than commercial use

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Gravel garden
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Wall side borders
Pruning

Pruning group 6

Pests

May be susceptible to aphids

Diseases

May be susceptible to stem rot, a rust, and soil-borne fungal diseases

Get involved

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