Malva neglecta (dwarf mallow) — Bushy

Overview

Malva neglecta is a bushy shrubs in the genus Malva, part of the Malvaceae family, with semi evergreen foliage. Malva neglecta grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, gravel garden, mediterranean climate plants and wildlife gardens.

About

Malva neglecta is a species of plant of the family Malvaceae, native to most of the Old World except sub-Saharan Africa. It is an annual growing to 0.6 m (2 ft). It is known as common mallow in the United States and also as buttonweed, cheeseplant, cheeseweed, dwarf mallow, and roundleaf mallow. This plant is often consumed as a food, with its leaves, stalks and seed all being considered edible. In the garden it prefers full sun and most soil types. In UK gardens it is hardy through an average UK winter (RHS H4). Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, gravel garden, mediterranean climate plants and wildlife gardens. It tolerates soil of any pH, well-drained conditions and south-facing and west-facing aspects. Plant out after last frost in fertile, well-drained soil.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Malva neglecta

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Malva

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH: Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture: Well-drained
Aspect: South-facing, West-facing
Exposure: Sheltered
UK hardiness: H4

Plant details

Malva neglecta size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Shrubs
Habit: Bushy
Foliage: Semi evergreen
Suggested uses: Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Mediterranean climate plants, Wildlife gardens

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Malva neglecta

Propagation: Propagate by seed, or by softwood cuttings from stems or basal shoots in early summer. Plants can be short-lived so regular propagation is recommended
Pest resistance: May be susceptible to aphids
Disease resistance: May be susceptible to stem rot, a rust, and soil-borne fungal diseases

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Malva neglecta?

Malva neglecta prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Malva neglecta need?

Malva neglecta is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.

Is Malva neglecta hardy in the UK?

Malva neglecta has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.

How do I propagate Malva neglecta?

Propagate by seed, or by softwood cuttings from stems or basal shoots in early summer. Plants can be short-lived so regular propagation is recommended.

More in the Malva genus

Browse all Malva →