About
A woody-based, short-lived perennial often grown as an annual or biennial, with lobed and toothed green leaves. Can reach up to 1m high in flower, producing clusters of very pale violet flowers heavily streaked with deep purple, 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
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial, Annual Biennial
HabitBushy, Columnar upright
FoliageSemi evergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildflower meadow, 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). Shelter from cold winds in areas prone to frosts
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed or by softwood cuttings. Plants can be short-lived so annual propagation is recommended. As this plant is protected by Plant Breeders' Rights, any propagation should be for personal rather than commercial use
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to hollyhock rust and soil-borne fungal diseases