Malva spp.

Plant Details

Back

General Information

Scientific name: Malva spp.
Also known as: Mallows

Plant Properties

Layer: Herb layer
Format: Smal
Height: 1.20 m
Width: 0.80 m
Growth Rate: -
Leaf: -

Growth conditions

USDA Hardiness: 4-8
Soil Moisture:
Moist
Soil:
Sand (light) Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)
pH:
Acid Neutral Basic
Light:
Half shade, Sun

Usage properties

Edible part:
Leaves, Seed, Flowers
Edibility:
(5)
Medicinal:
(1)
Features:
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

Start Harvest: 01/06
End of Harvest: 30/09

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.