Hollyhock Mallow Malva alcea
ABOUT
Malva alcea, commonly known as hollyhock mallow, is a flowering plant characterized by its showy and colorful appearance. The hollyhock mallow has a robust central stem that bears large, palmate leaves. These leaves are often heart-shaped at the base and have five to seven deep lobes giving them a somewhat hand-like appearance. The flowers of the hollyhock mallow are its most striking feature. They grow in clusters at the top of the stems and are a vivid pink color that can range from soft pastels to a more intense rosy hue. Each flower has five petals that are rounded and slightly ruffled, giving them a delicate, romantic look. At the center of the flowers, you can observe a column of numerous stamens and a prominent style which are typical of plants in its family. Given its attractive blossoms, the hollyhock mallow is a favorite among gardeners and is often used in borders, cottage gardens and ornamental beds where its flowers can be fully appreciated. Its bloom period extends through the summer months, and when properly cared for, it can provide a long-lasting display of color.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Greater Musk-mallow, Cut-leaved Mallow, Hollyhock Mallow, Vervain Mallow, Cheese-cake, High Mallow, Hock-leaf.
Common names
Althaea alcea (L.) E.H.L.Krause, Malva alcea var. fastigiata (L.) Alef., Malva fastigiata L., Malva grandiflora Alef.
ToxicityTo humans
Vervain mallow (Malva alcea) is generally not considered toxic to humans. In fact, various parts of the plant, such as leaves and flowers, have been traditionally used in culinary applications and herbal medicine. However, consuming large quantities of any plant could potentially lead to gastrointestinal discomfort due to fiber content or individual sensitivity. It is important to exercise caution and consult with a healthcare provider before ingesting any wild plants or herbal remedies, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or have existing health conditions.
To pets
Vervain mallow (Malva alcea) is not commonly known to be toxic to pets. This plant is generally considered safe and is not listed among the toxic plants for domestic animals. However, as with humans, overconsumption of any non-food plant material might cause gastrointestinal upset in pets such as vomiting or diarrhea, particularly if the pet is not accustomed to eating such plants. Always monitor your pets to ensure they are not consuming large amounts of any plant, and if you suspect your pet is unwell, contact a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Spread
2 feet (60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4-8
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators: Malva alcea, commonly known as hollyhock mallow, is known to attract bees and butterflies, which can increase the pollination of nearby plants.
- Edible parts: The young leaves of hollyhock mallow can be used in salads or cooked as greens, while the flowers are sometimes used to decorate desserts or to make refreshing teas.
- Drought-resistant: Hollyhock mallow is tolerant to dry conditions once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping or gardens in arid climates.
- Ornamental value: The plant's bright flowers and attractive foliage add aesthetic value to gardens, parks, and landscapes.
- Wildlife habitat: It provides shelter and food for various insects and small animals, enhancing local biodiversity.
- Erosion control: The root system of hollyhock mallow helps stabilize soil and prevent erosion, especially on slopes or in areas with loose soil.
- Low maintenance: This plant generally requires minimal care once established, needing only occasional watering and pruning.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Malva alcea has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory properties, which may help in reducing swelling and irritation.
- Demulcent: The mucilaginous substances present in the plant can soothe and protect irritated or inflamed internal tissues.
- Diuretic: It is sometimes used for its diuretic effects to promote the production of urine, assisting in the flushing of the urinary tract.
- Emollient: The plant can have a softening and soothing effect on the skin, which makes it useful in treating skin irritations and inflammation.
- Expectorant: It has been used to help loosen phlegm and relieve coughs, contributing to its use in respiratory conditions.
- Gastroprotective: Due to its soothing mucilages, it may be used to protect and calm the digestive tract lining.
- Laxative: In traditional medicine, it may be used in mild constipation due to its soothing and lubricating properties.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As a natural dye: The flowers of Malva alcea, also known as hollyhock mallow, can be used to produce a light pink or mauve dye for textiles.
- Livestock feed: The leaves and stems can be a source of forage for livestock like sheep and goats, particularly in rural areas.
- Garden aesthetics: Hollyhock mallow is often planted for its decorative flowers which can enhance the visual appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Companion planting: The plant can be used in companion planting to attract beneficial insects such as pollinators to the garden.
- Erosion control: Due to its extensive root system, hollyhock mallow can be planted to help stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
- Culinary decoration: Its edible flowers can be used to garnish salads and desserts, adding a splash of color to dishes.
- Plant dye indicator: The natural dyes derived from hollyhock mallow can also be used in educational settings to teach about pH indicators, as the color can change with the acidity of the dye bath.
- Privacy screening: When planted in rows or clusters, the tall stems and dense foliage of hollyhock mallow can create a natural privacy screen in gardens.
- Biodegradable mulch: Once the plant has completed its lifecycle, the dried stems and leaves can be used as a biodegradable mulch to enrich garden soil.
- Biomass production: It can potentially be cultivated for biomass production, as it produces a large amount of plant material that could be converted into fuel or compost.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Hollyhock is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Hollyhock is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Delicate Beauty: With its soft, rounded pink flowers, Malva alcea, commonly known as hollyhock mallow, symbolizes a gentle and unassuming beauty.
- Femininity: The voluptuous shape of the flowers may represent femininity and motherhood.
- Fertility: Historically, hollyhock mallow has been associated with fertility and abundance because of its prolific seed production.
- Survival: As a hardy plant that reseeds itself and can thrive in challenging conditions, it's often seen as a symbol of resilience and survival.
- Healing: The Hollyhock mallow has been used in traditional medicine, and therefore, it can symbolize healing and medicinal properties.
WaterHollyhock Mallow (Malva alcea) should be watered deeply, allowing the soil to be saturated but not waterlogged. During the active growing season, usually in spring and summer, it should be watered once a week with approximately 1 to 1.5 gallons of water per plant. During the fall and winter, watering frequency should be reduced to every two to three weeks depending on the weather, providing about half a gallon to maintain soil moisture without causing excessive dampness that can lead to root rot. Always check the soil moisture level before watering to ensure it has partly dried since the last watering.
LightHollyhock Mallow prefers full sun to partial shade. It thrives best when it receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. The ideal spot for this plant would be an area that is exposed to morning sunshine with some afternoon shade, especially in regions with particularly hot summers. However, it can also tolerate and bloom satisfactorily with less intense light situations such as those found under light tree canopies or on the east side of buildings.
TemperatureHollyhock Mallow is hardy and can usually withstand temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit, making it suitable for many temperate climates. It grows best in temperatures between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, which are typical for spring and early summer in many areas. It can survive in high temperatures but may require additional watering to cope with the heat. The plant is not tolerant of extreme cold and should be protected or moved indoors in regions where temperatures falls below 20 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningFor Hollyhock Mallow, pruning is generally done to remove dead or damaged stems and to shape the plant. It should be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Pruning involves cutting back last year's stems to about 2 to 3 inches above the ground to encourage robust, fresh growth and more prolific flowering. Additionally, deadheading, or removing spent flowers, can be done throughout the blooming season to promote further blooms.
CleaningAs needed
SoilHollyhock mallow thrives in well-draining soil enriched with compost and organic matter with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5 for optimal growth.
RepottingHollyhock mallow generally does not need frequent repotting and can often be left undisturbed for several years unless it outgrows its container.
Humidity & MistingHollyhock mallow prefers average humidity levels and is quite adaptable, not requiring any special humidity adjustments for healthy growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, well-draining soil, and space for Hollyhock mallow's growth.
Outdoor
Plant in sun to part shade, enrich soil with organic matter, and water regularly.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleHollyhock mallow (Malva alcea) begins its life as a seed that germinates in spring when soil temperatures are warm enough. It develops a deep taproot and a basal rosette of leaves during its initial growth phase. Vegetative growth continues through the late spring and early summer, and it starts to send up flowering stalks that can grow to be quite tall. Flowering generally occurs in mid to late summer, during which time the hollyhock mallow showcases pink or white flowers that attract various pollinators. After pollination, it produces fruit that contains seeds, which are dispersed by wind, water, or animals, or fall to the ground near the parent plant. The hollyhock mallow can be a short-lived perennial, often reseeding itself to create new plants for the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Malva alcea, commonly known as the hollyhock mallow, can be effectively propagated by seed. The best time to sow seeds directly is after the danger of frost has passed in spring. To propagate by seed, scatter them on a well-draining soil mix and lightly cover with soil, as they need light for germination. Keep the soil moist until germination occurs, which generally takes about 2 to 3 weeks. Seedlings can be thinned to about 18 inches (approximately 45 centimeters) apart to allow room for growth. Hollyhock mallow can also be propagated by division in the spring or fall, but sowing seeds tends to be the most popular method due to its simplicity and effectiveness.
