Sidalcea malviflora 'Sussex Beauty' (Dwarf Checkerbloom) — Perennial herbaceous

Overview

Sidalcea malviflora 'Sussex Beauty' is a perennial herbaceous in the genus Sidalcea, part of the Malvaceae family. It typically grows around 0.8 m tall. Sidalcea malviflora 'Sussex Beauty' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is native to California and USA.

About the genus

Sidalcea is a genus of the botanical family Malvaceae. It contains several species of flowering plants known generally as checkerblooms or checkermallows, or prairie mallows in the United Kingdom. They can be annuals or perennials, some rhizomatous.

Wikipedia contributors, "Sidalcea", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Sidalcea

In the garden

Sidalcea malviflora 'Sussex Beauty' is a herbaceous perennial from California that reaches roughly 0.8 m when in flower and produces its main display in mid-summer. The species sits within the genus Sidalcea and is valued for its seasonal flowering run between June and August. Site the plant in full sun and use soils that may be sandy, loamy or clay so long as they remain moist but well-drained; poor drainage should be avoided. It carries a UK hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy and will tolerate winter conditions across Britain; the cultivar also fits within USDA zones 5–9. During establishment water regularly, then reduce supplementary irrigation in typical summers unless soil dries out completely. In the garden place specimens towards the middle or rear of a sunny border where a roughly 0.8 m tall summer stem will not be hidden. It suits informal mixed borders and cottage-style beds alongside perennials and grasses with similar moisture needs. Cut back spent flower stems after flowering to keep plants tidy and help fresh vegetative growth emerge; expect the main flowering period to run from June to August, when plants reach about 0.8 m.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Sidalcea

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Sandy, Loamy, Clay
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained
Exposure: Full sun
UK hardiness: H7

Plant details

Sidalcea malviflora 'Sussex Beauty' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Perennial herbaceous
Height: 0.8 m
Native to: California, USA

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Sidalcea malviflora 'Sussex Beauty'

Propagation: Seed, division

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Sidalcea malviflora 'Sussex Beauty'?

Sidalcea malviflora 'Sussex Beauty' prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.

What soil does Sidalcea malviflora 'Sussex Beauty' need?

Sidalcea malviflora 'Sussex Beauty' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

How big does Sidalcea malviflora 'Sussex Beauty' grow?

Sidalcea malviflora 'Sussex Beauty' reaches a height of 0.8 m.

Is Sidalcea malviflora 'Sussex Beauty' hardy in the UK?

Sidalcea malviflora 'Sussex Beauty' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.