Overview

Lavatera oblongifolia is a perennial in the genus Malva, part of the Malvaceae family. Lavatera oblongifolia grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include borders and containers. It is native to Spain.

About

Lavatera oblongifolia is a member of the Malva genus in the Malvaceae family, sharing the mallow group's characteristic five-petalled flowers and palmately lobed leaves. Plants in this genus range from herbaceous to woody and may be annual, biennial or perennial. It is used in cultivation for summer flowering and is regarded among mallows as a short-lived perennial in garden practice. Flowering runs from June to September.

About the genus

Malva is a genus of herbaceous or woody, annual, biennial, and perennial plants in the family Malvaceae. It is one of several closely related genera in the family to bear the common English name mallow. The genus is widespread throughout the temperate, subtropical and tropical regions of Africa, Asia and Europe.

Wikipedia contributors, "Malva", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Malva

In the garden

Lavatera oblongifolia sits within the Malva genus of the Malvaceae family, a group that includes herbaceous and woody species found across temperate, subtropical and tropical regions of Africa, Asia and Europe. Members of this genus typically carry alternate, palmately lobed leaves and single flowers with five petals; the broader genus produces blooms in shades of pink, lilac, purple or white. Gardeners grow Lavatera oblongifolia principally for its summer display: flowering extends from June to September. Many mallows are described as very easily grown and appear as short-lived perennials in cultivation, so expect to replace or renew plants after a few seasons where required. Where space allows, place it among summer herbaceous borders or informal beds to provide a steady sequence of blooms through the warmer months. Some species in the mallow group have edible leaves and long tradition as foraged greens; Lavatera oblongifolia sits in that same botanical context while being cultivated mainly for summer flowering. Its dependable run of flowers from June to September is the primary reason it is chosen for summer interest in British gardens.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Malva

Sunlight

full sun, partial shade

Soil type

well-drained

Soil moisture

moderate

Exposure

sheltered

UK hardiness

H4

Plant details

Lavatera oblongifolia size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

perennial

Suggested uses

borders, containers

Native to

Spain

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Lavatera oblongifolia

Cultivation

Grow in well-drained soil in a sunny or partially shaded position. Protect from cold winds.

Pruning

Cut back hard in early spring to encourage fresh growth.

Propagation

Seed, cuttings

Frequently asked questions