Tree Mallow Lavatera Blue Bird = 'Renlav'

Water

The Tree Mallow (Lavatera 'Blue Bird') prefers consistent moisture and should be watered deeply whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which could be about once a week during hot, dry periods. The amount of water required will vary with weather conditions and soil type, but a general guideline is to use approximately 1 to 2 gallons of water per plant for each watering session. Ensure the water reaches the root zone to encourage deep root development. During cooler or rainy periods, reduce the frequency of watering to prevent overwatering and root rot.

Light

The Tree Mallow thrives in full sun conditions, meaning it should receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. The best spot for the plant is in a location where it's exposed to unfiltered sunlight for the majority of the day. Avoid placing it in deep shade or overly dark corners, as this will significantly affect its growth and flowering potential.

Temperature

The Tree Mallow prefers moderate to warm temperatures and can tolerate a range between 50°F and 85°F. Keep in mind that it may not survive exposure to prolonged periods of temperatures below 20°F or high temperatures above 90°F for extended periods. The ideal temperature range is between 60°F and 75°F for optimal growth.

Pruning

Prune the Tree Mallow to maintain its shape and encourage vigorous growth. It's best to prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Cut back any dead or damaged stems, and to promote a bushy growth habit, trim back the previous year's growth by about a third. Pruning can be done annually.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Lavatera, commonly known as tree mallow, thrives in well-draining, fertile soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH of 6.5 to 7.5. A good soil mix for tree mallow is composed of loamy garden soil, peat, compost, and a bit of coarse sand to improve drainage.

Repotting

Tree mallow, or Lavatera 'Blue Bird', generally does not require frequent repotting as it is often grown as an annual or biennial. If grown as a perennial, repotting every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current container is sufficient.

Humidity & Misting

Tree mallow prefers outdoor conditions and does not require specific humidity levels to thrive. It is adaptable to the typical range of outdoor humidity levels.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright light, minimal care required.

• Outdoor

  Full sun, shelter from strong winds, well-drained soil.

• Hardiness zone

  7-10 USDA.

Life cycle

The life cycle of the Lavatera 'Renlav' (Blue Bird) begins with seed germination, which occurs in warm, moist soil conditions typically in the spring. After sprouting, the seedling emerges and develops its first true leaves, engaging in photosynthesis. As it matures, the plant enters a vegetative growth phase, forming a bushy structure with lush, green foliage. The Blue Bird Lavatera then enters the flowering stage, producing striking blue-violet blooms that attract pollinators and can last from mid-summer into the autumn months. Following pollination, the plant develops seed capsules, which, when mature, release seeds to begin a new generation. Finally, as a perennial plant in mild climates or an annual in colder regions, it will either prepare for dormancy during the winter or die after setting seed, completing its life cycle.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Summer

• The most popular method of propagating Lavatera 'Blue Bird', also known as 'Renlav', is through seed sowing. Seeds should be sown in spring after the threat of frost has passed. They can be directly sown into well-draining soil where the plant is to grow or started indoors in seed trays or pots. If starting indoors, seeds are typically sown 1/4 inch deep in a seed-starting mix and kept at temperatures of about 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21 degrees Celsius). Seedlings can be transplanted outdoors once they are large enough to handle and after hardening off to acclimate them to outdoor conditions. It is important to space the plants about 18 to 24 inches apart to allow for adequate growth and airflow.