Malva sylvestris 'Magic Hollyhock' (d) — Bushy

Overview

Malva sylvestris 'Magic Hollyhock' (d) is a bushy shrubs in the genus Malva, part of the Malvaceae family, with semi evergreen foliage. Malva sylvestris 'Magic Hollyhock' (d) 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 sylvestris 'Magic Hollyhock' is a bushy shrub cultivar within the Malva genus, known for its semi-evergreen foliage and rounded, typically lobed leaves. It thrives in full sun with a sheltered aspect, favouring south- or west-facing positions and well-drained soils such as chalk, loam, or sand with a range of pH levels. Hardy to UK zone H4, this cultivar is suitable for cottage and informal gardens, gravel gardens, and wildlife-friendly Mediterranean-style planting. It flowers in summer and autumn, with five-petalled blooms appearing in clusters or leaf axils, and benefits from propagation by seed or softwood cuttings due to its potentially short lifespan.

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 sylvestris 'Magic Hollyhock' (d) 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 sylvestris 'Magic Hollyhock' (d)

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 sylvestris 'Magic Hollyhock' (d)?

Malva sylvestris 'Magic Hollyhock' (d) prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Malva sylvestris 'Magic Hollyhock' (d) need?

Malva sylvestris 'Magic Hollyhock' (d) 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 sylvestris 'Magic Hollyhock' (d) hardy in the UK?

Malva sylvestris 'Magic Hollyhock' (d) 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 sylvestris 'Magic Hollyhock' (d)?

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

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