About
A vigorous shrub to 2.5m high, with 3-5 lobed, densely downy grey-green leaves. Deep pink flowers, with slightly notched petals and darker veins, are produced all through the 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
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageSemi evergreen
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Mediterranean climate plants, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationThrives in light, moderately fertile, well drained soil in full sun; may need support if grown in richer soils (see staking perennials). Borderline hardy; shelter from cold winds and provide protection in cold winters
PruningPruning group 6
PropagationPropagate 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 resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to stem rot, a rust, and soil-borne fungal diseases