Althaea officinalis

Plant Details

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General Information

Scientific name: Althaea officinalis

Also known as: Marsh Mallow

Images: Google Images

Plant Properties

Layer: Herb layer

Format: Smal

Height: 1.20 m

Width: 0.80 m

Growth Rate: -

Leaf: -

Growth conditions

USDA Hardiness: 3-7

Soil Moisture:
Permeable, Moist

Soil:
Sand (light) Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)

pH:
Acid Neutral Basic

Light:
Half shade, Sun

Usage properties

Edible part:
Leaves, Root, Tea

Edibility:
(5)

Medicinal:
(5)

Features:
Glue, Fibers, Oil

Description

Leaves can be eaten both raw and cooked. They are often used in dishes as leafy vegetables or to make thicker soups. To retain the flavor and texture optimally, it is advisable to use the leaves in small quantities and combine them with other leafy types. Cooking too many leaves can lead to a slimy texture and a less pleasant taste. The leaves can also be eaten raw, but keep in mind that they can be fibrous, although the flavor is generally mild and pleasant. The root of the plant can be eaten both raw and cooked. It is often used as a vegetable, but can also be dried and ground into powder. This powder can be used to make pastes or for roasting. Roasted roots can develop a sweet, marshmallow-like texture. The cooking water from the roots can even serve as an egg substitute. Finally, both the flowers and the roots can be used to make tea.

Harvest Data

Start Harvest: 01/08

End of Harvest: 30/09

Guilds

Guild Information

Click on a plant in the diagram for more information.

Guild Details

Guild	Description
Achillea millefolium Yarrow, Boreal yarrow, California yarrow, Giant yarrow, Coast yarrow, Western yarrow, Pacific yarrow	Enhances soil fertility and attracts beneficial insects.
Allium cepa Garden onion	Repels certain pests and enhances the growth of Althaea.
Calendula officinalis Marigold, Pot marigold	Repels pests and attracts pollinators, improving pollination rates.
Lavandula angustifolia Lavender, Lavandula	Repels pests and provides aromatic benefits to the garden.
Malva sylvestris Mallow, High mallow, French Hollyhock, Common Mallow, Tree Mallow, Tall Mallow	Shares beneficial nutrients in the soil and attracts pollinators.
Sambucus nigra European elder	Provides shade and habitat for beneficial insects.
Rubus idaeus Raspberry	Improves soil structure and shares beneficial root exudates.
Allium sativum Garlic	Repels pests and enhances overall plant health.