Tree mallow Lavatera × clementii 'Lisanne'
ABOUT
Lavatera × clementii 'Lisanne', commonly known as "Lisanne", is a visually striking plant characterized by its abundant and vibrant blooms. The flowers resemble those of hibiscus, with a soft, funnel-like shape. These blooms come in a pleasing shade of pink with darker veins that create an attractive contrast against the lighter background of the petals. At the center of each flower, a noticeable column of stamen and style protrudes, typically a deeper shade of pink to magenta, adding a touch of elegance to the plant's overall appearance. The foliage of the 'Lisanne' is equally noteworthy, comprising of heart-shaped leaves that have a serrated edge. These leaves grow densely, providing a lush backdrop to the bright blossoms. The green of the leaves is a deep, rich tone, which further accentuates the pink of the flowers and makes them stand out. Overall, the plant exudes a bushy, robust demeanor, with branches that spread outward, giving rise to an enveloping presence in the garden space it occupies. The combination of its striking flowers and hearty foliage makes 'Lisanne' a favorite among gardeners looking to add a splash of color and vibrancy to their floral displays.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Lavatera 'Lisanne', Tree Mallow 'Lisanne', Shrub Mallow 'Lisanne'
Common names
Lavatera × clementii 'Lisanne'.
ToxicityTo humans
Lavatera × clementii 'Lisanne', commonly known as the Tree Mallow, does not have a well-documented profile of toxicity to humans. It is generally considered non-toxic, and there are no specific symptoms of poisoning associated with this plant. However, as with any plant, individuals may have varying sensitivities, and it is always advisable to avoid ingesting plant material that is not specifically designated as edible.
To pets
Tree Mallow is not commonly listed as a toxic plant for pets. There is a lack of information on the toxicity of Lavatera × clementii 'Lisanne' to animals such as cats and dogs. Similar to humans, there are no widely recognized symptoms of poisoning from this plant for pets. To err on the side of caution, it is best to prevent pets from ingesting the plant, as individual animals may have unique reactions to substances that are otherwise considered non-toxic.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Semi-deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
6 feet (1.83 meters)
Spread
4 feet (1.22 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Garden origin
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Lavatera 'Lisanne', commonly known as shrub mallow, adds visual interest to gardens with its abundant, trumpet-shaped pink flowers.
- Attracts Pollinators: The plant is attractive to bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, which helps with pollination of gardens and ecosystems.
- Fast Growing: Shrub mallow is known for its rapid growth rate, which quickly provides coverage and fills in garden spaces.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, Lavatera 'Lisanne' has good drought tolerance, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Low Maintenance: This plant generally requires minimal care, making it a convenient choice for gardeners with limited time.
- Versatility: Shrub mallow can be used in a variety of garden settings, including borders, containers, and as a specimen plant.
- Long Blooming Season: The plant has a lengthy blooming period, typically lasting from early summer to early fall, providing long-lasting color.
- Adaptable: It can adapt to a range of soil types, though it prefers well-drained soil, making it suitable for many garden situations.
- Deer Resistant: Lavatera 'Lisanne' is not a preferred food source for deer, making it an excellent choice in areas where deer predation is a concern.
- Coastal Growth: The plant is salt-tolerant and can be grown in coastal areas without damage from salt spray.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Lavatera x clementii 'Lisanne', commonly known as tree mallow, can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, providing a range of soft green to yellow hues depending on the mordant used.
- The fibrous stems of tree mallow can be used in papermaking for creating handmade papers with unique textures.
- Tree mallow's large, attractive petals can be pressed and included in botanical art projects or used for decorative purposes in scrapbooking and decoupage crafts.
- Dried tree mallow flowers can be integrated into potpourri mixes for a subtle fragrance and enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the mix.
- The flowers of tree mallow can be used in the creation of natural flower confetti, providing an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic confetti at events.
- Mallow seeds, including those of tree mallow, can serve as a food source for birds, especially during the winter months when natural food is scarce.
- The broad leaves of tree mallow can be used as a natural mulch in the garden, helping to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
- Tree mallow can be used as a temporary privacy screen in the garden during the growing season due to its quick growth and bushy form.
- The stems of tree mallow, when dried, can be used as kindling or as part of natural fire starter bundles due to their fibrous nature.
- When planted in outdoor sitting areas, the tree mallow's height and foliage can provide a sense of seclusion and intimacy for garden spaces.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Tree mallow is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Tree mallow is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Romance: Lavatera × clementii 'Lisanne', commonly known as the Royal Mallow, often symbolizes love and romance due to its beautiful, showy flowers that are reminiscent of the heart's openness.
- Beauty: The striking appearance of the Royal Mallow's blooms is associated with physical and spiritual beauty, highlighting the admiration of natural aesthetics.
- Rebirth: The cycle of its flowering suggests themes of renewal and rebirth, underlining the plant's capability to regenerate and start anew season after season.
- Femininity: With its soft, delicate petals, the Royal Mallow is frequently linked with feminine qualities, encompassing grace, gentleness, and tenderness.
WaterTree Mallow should be watered deeply once a week, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. During the hot summer months, it may require more frequent watering, perhaps every 3-4 days, depending on the climate. Provide about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water per plant for each watering session to ensure the root zone is thoroughly soaked. In cooler months or during periods of rainfall, reduce the frequency to prevent overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Always check the top inch of the soil for dryness before watering again.
LightTree Mallow thrives in full sunlight, meaning it should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sun daily. Planting it in a south-facing or west-facing garden spot will ensure it gets ample light. If grown indoors, place it near a window that receives generous sunlight. Avoid deep shade as this can reduce flowering and lead to leggy growth.
TemperatureTree Mallow prefers warmer temperatures and is best grown in areas with temperature ranges between 50°F and 85°F. It can survive minimal frosts but sustained temperatures below 20°F may damage or kill the plant. Ideally, maintain an environment where it doesn't experience extreme heat above 90°F or freezing conditions for the healthiest growth.
PruningTree Mallow should be pruned to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins, cutting back to about a third of the plant's size. Deadheading, or the removal of spent flowers, can be done throughout the blooming season to encourage further flowering.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Tree Mallow 'Lisanne' is well-drained, fertile loam with added organic matter such as compost. It thrives in a neutral to slightly alkaline pH, between 6.0 and 7.5.
RepottingTree Mallow 'Lisanne' does not typically require frequent repotting as it is often grown as a short-lived shrub. It may only need repotting every 2-3 years, or as the plant outgrows its current container.
Humidity & MistingTree Mallow 'Lisanne' is tolerant of a range of humidity levels and does well in the typical ambient humidity of outdoor environments. It does not require high humidity to thrive.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Tree Mallow 'Lisanne' prefers full sun and may not thrive indoors.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, sheltered from strong winds, in well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
7-9 USDA
Life cycleLavatera × clementii 'Lisanne', commonly known as shrub mallow, begins its life cycle as a seed, requiring warm temperatures and well-drained soil to germinate and grow. Upon sprouting, the seedling develops true leaves and rapidly grows into a young plant, benefiting from ample sunlight and regular watering. Transitioning to the vegetative stage, the shrub mallow branches out, forming a bushy structure with heart-shaped leaves, and develops a strong root system. As it enters the flowering stage, typically in late spring or summer, it produces a profusion of pink, trumpet-shaped flowers that attract pollinators. After pollination, the flowers develop into seed capsules containing numerous seeds, which, when mature, are released into the environment, completing the reproductive cycle. During the dormant stage in winter, shrub mallow may lose some leaves but will resprout with the arrival of warmer spring temperatures, repeating its life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-early summer
Lavatera × clementii 'Lisanne', commonly known as the Lavatera or Tree Mallow, is typically propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings. This method is most effective in late summer. To propagate, select a healthy, non-flowering shoot and cut a length of about six inches (15 centimeters). Strip the lower leaves and dip the cutting base in rooting hormone powder to encourage root development. Plant the cutting in a pot filled with a mix of peat and perlite or a well-draining potting mix, ensuring that at least two nodes are buried where leaves were removed. Water the cutting and place it in a warm, bright area without direct sunlight. The cutting should root within a few weeks, after which it can be transplanted into its final location.
