Malva spp.
Plant Details
Plant Properties
Growth conditions
Moist
Sand (light) Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)
Acid Neutral Basic
Half shade, Sun
Usage properties
Leaves, Seed, Flowers
Fibers, Dye
Description
Leaves can be eaten both raw and cooked and have a mild and pleasant flavor. The leaves are slimy and fairly tasteless, making them an excellent substitute for lettuce in salads. They grow fresh from spring until mid-summer, or from self-seeded plants in the fall. Flowers can be eaten raw and are very decorative in salads, with a mild flavor and a texture similar to the leaves. The seeds can be eaten raw and have a pleasant nutty taste, but it is best to use them before they are fully matured, as they are generally quite small and difficult to harvest.
Harvest Data
Guilds
Guild Information
Click on a plant in the diagram for more information.
Guild Details
| Guild | Description |
|---|---|
|
Ficus carica Fig |
Ficus carica provides shade, which can help to protect Malva spp. from extreme heat. Additionally, its fruits add diversity to the garden ecosystem. |
|
Ribes rubrum Redcurrant, Whitecurrant |
Ribes rubrum attracts beneficial insects that can help pollinate Malva spp. and may deter harmful pests. |
|
Achillea millefolium Yarrow, Boreal yarrow, California yarrow, Giant yarrow, Coast yarrow, Western yarrow, Pacific yarrow |
Achillea millefolium is known for its pest-repelling qualities and can enhance the growth of Malva spp. |
|
Lavandula angustifolia Lavender, Lavandula |
Lavandula angustifolia attracts pollinators and helps to create a fragrant environment that benefits Malva spp. |
|
Thymus vulgaris Common Thyme, Garden thyme, Wild Thyme |
Thymus vulgaris can improve the flavor and aroma of the surrounding plants while repelling some harmful pests. |