Common Mallow
Malva sylvestris
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Description
Common Mallow (Malva sylvestris) is a perennial herbaceous plant recognized for its vibrant purple flowers and rounded, lobed leaves. Native to Europe, North Africa, and Asia, it has naturalized in various regions worldwide. In regenerative agriculture, Common Mallow plays a crucial role as a dynamic accumulator, drawing nutrients from deep soil layers with its robust taproot and improving soil structure. It serves as a ground cover in food forests, reducing erosion and suppressing weeds. Historically, it has been used in traditional medicine and as a food source. Common Mallow is an excellent companion plant, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies, and can be paired with crops such as tomatoes and cabbages to enhance biodiversity and productivity.
Growing Details
Common Mallow thrives in well-drained, loamy soils with full sun exposure. Before planting, enrich the soil with organic compost to enhance fertility. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include tomatoes and cabbages, which benefit from its pest-repelling properties. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Harvest leaves and flowers in the morning when their flavor is most intense. Store leaves in a cool, dry place or refrigerate them to
Edible Parts
Leaves
Seed
Flowers
Tags
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Erosion Preventing
Bee Friendly
Meadow
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Tea
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Malva sylvestris</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to Europe, North Africa, and Asia
applicable geo region: Temperate regions
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of May for 90 days
Harvest:
middle
of Jun for 30 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of March
Indoor Start:
beginning
of March
Transplant:
beginning
of May
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(4/5)
edible uses: The leaves, flowers, and seeds of Common Mallow are edible. Young leaves can be consumed raw in salads or cooked as a leafy vegetable. Flowers serve as a colorful garnish or salad addition, while the seeds, known as 'cheeses', can be eaten raw or cooked. The plant is rich in mucilage, which can be soothing for the digestive system.
Medicinal Rating:
(4/5)
medicinal uses: Common Mallow has been traditionally used for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. It is beneficial for treating respiratory and digestive issues, as well as skin irritations. The mucilage in the plant provides a protective coating to mucous membranes, making it effective for sore throats and coughs. It is often prepared as a tea or poultice.
health concerns: While generally safe, excessive consumption may lead to digestive discomfort due to its high mucilage content.
other uses: Common Mallow can be used as a green manure or cover crop to improve soil fertility. It also has potential uses in natural dye production, yielding a range of colors from its flowers.
Scientific Literature
Loading scientific articles about <strong>Malva sylvestris</strong>...
Botanical data
specie: Malva sylvestris
common names: Common Mallow; High Mallow; Tall Mallow
family: Malvaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Malva
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.5 m
spacing: 0.3 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 25ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 5ยฐC / 30ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Medium
frost tender: Medium
hardness:
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(6/10)
first harvest: 1 years
life span: 5 years
succession: Pioneer
growth rate: Medium
max height: 1.2 m
max width: 0.6 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Common Mallow thrives in well-drained, loamy soils with full sun exposure. Before planting, enrich the soil with organic compost to enhance fertility. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include tomatoes and cabbages, which benefit from its pest-repelling properties. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Harvest leaves and flowers in the morning when their flavor is most intense. Store leaves in a cool, dry place or refrigerate them to
Potential Disturbances: Common challenges include aphid pressure and rust. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to manage aphid populations. Planting garlic or chives nearby can deter rust. Use neem oil or a garlic spray as an organic solution for these challenges.
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