Malva spp.
Mallows
Explore the size, hardiness, soil, light, edible uses and harvest period of Malva spp..
Plant Properties
Growth conditions
Moist
Sand (light) Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)
Acidic Neutral Alkaline
Partial shade, Full sun
Usage properties
Leaves, Seed, Flowers
Fibre, 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.