About
A semi-evergreen subshrub to around 1.8m high, with densely downy, lobed and toothed silvery green leaves. Clusters of white flowers with deep pink eyes mature to pale pink as they age. Flowers from early to late summer.
About the genus
Malva can be annuals, biennials or perennials, with rounded, often palmately lobed leaves and 5-petalled, open funnel-shaped flowers in the leaf axils or in terminal racemes
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageSemi evergreen
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesGravel garden, Wildlife gardens, Cottage and informal garden
Care notes
CultivationThrives in light, moderately fertile, well drained soil in full sun or light shade; may need support if grown in richer soils (see staking perennials). Shelter from cold winds in areas prone to frosts. May die back to a woody base in cold winters
PruningPruning group 6
PropagationPropagate by softwood cuttings from stems or basal shoots in early summer. Plants can be short-lived so regular propagation is recommended
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to stem rot, a rust, and soil-borne fungal diseases