How to Grow Mallow Plants

Perennial, Annual, Lavatera trimestris

Mallow is a fun and easy to grow member of the Hibiscus plant family. It calls many places "Home", being native to North America, Asia, and Australia. 

Mallow plants are really perennials. But, they are usually grown as annuals.

The flower blooms resemble hollyhocks, and are 2 inches across, in pink or white colors. The leaves are heart-shaped. Large leaves at the bottom of the plant,  gradually give way to smaller leaves, higher up the stem.

Mallow flowers attract butterflies.

Try growing Mallow in flower beds, borders, or containers on your patio or deck.

Mallow looks good in cut flower arrangements.

Other Names; Malva, Striped Mallow

Plant Height: 1' - 4', depending upon variety

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Plant Propagation:

Mallow plants are grown from seeds. Sow seeds directly into your flower garden after all danger of frost has past.

While you can start seeds, indoors, they do not like to be transplanted. If you choose an indoor start, we recommend using peat pots. Transplant before roots begin to emerge through the pot.

Mallow can also be propagated by rooting cuttings. Use tender, young stems.

Ideal Germination temperature: 70 degrees

Days to Germination: 5 - 10

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How to Grow Mallow Plants:

Grow Mallow plants in full sun. They will tolerate partial shade.

Mallow plants like good to average soils, that are well drained. Add a generous amount of compost into the planting site.

The plants are drought tolerant, but grow best with a constant supply of water.

Water regularly during droughts.

Apply a general purpose fertilizer monthly.

Established Mallow plants are low maintenance. For a bushier growth, pinch back growing tips after the plant reaches 12".

Add mulch around the plants for appearance, and to keep weeds down.

Deadhead spent flowers, to promote new blooms.

Flowers Bloom: Summer and Fall

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Insect and Disease:

Insect and disease problems are infrequent.

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