Malva sylvestris - Mallow

Malva sylvestris, also known as common mallow or high mallow, is a native medicinal plant that has been cultivated in gardens for a long time. In theory, it is a perennial plant, but it behaves like a biennial in temperate regions. It quickly forms large flowering clumps from spring until the end of summer. Its pretty pinkish-mauve flowers are streaked with purple. Plant it with other wildflowers in a cottage garden or naturalistic-inspired garden.

The common mallow belongs to the Malvaceae family, just like lavateras, hibiscus, and rose mallows. It is a characteristic species of European fallow lands in xerophilous environments, meaning hot and dry habitats. It is naturally found in clay-limestone soils, along paths, fences, embankments, and old walls. Long dry summers do not bother this mallow at all. It is an indicator plant of current or former human presence. It rarely lives more than three or four seasons, but it reseeds very easily.

Malva sylvestris, a fast-growing plant, develops many hairy, straight or prostrate stems, which are woody at the base and well-branched. Together, they form a clump reaching 80 to 90cm (32 to 35in) in height. Its slightly shiny dark green leaves are rounded and divided into 5 shallow lobes, 4 to 8cm (2 to 3in) wide. The plant blooms from May-June until the end of September. The flowers, 4 to 6cm (2in) in diameter, are gathered in clusters in the axils of the leaves and have 5 notched petals. They are pink-mauve with dark purple streaks. As they fade, the petals turn bluish-purple. After pollination by insects, small circular fruits called 'cheeses' form, hence the vernacular name 'cheese flower'.

Mallows thrive in most soils and require very little maintenance, making them great allies for beginner gardeners. Mallows should be exposed to sunlight or partial shade. They tolerate limestone soils perfectly. Common mallow will perfectly blend with penstemons, yarrows, catmints, and lady's mantles.