Malva alcea (Malvaceae)

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Malva alcea
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The Malva alcea plant species is found in Europe. An occasional casual in Britain. It is a member of the Malvaceae family.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Malva alcea
Family:  Malvaceae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  Although we have seen no reports of toxicity for this species, when grown on nitrogen rich soils (and particularly when these are cultivated inorganically), the leaves of some species tend to concentrate high levels of nitrates in their leaves[76]. The leaves are perfectly wholesome at all other times.

Mature Height:  1.2   Mature Width:  0.75

Habitat:  Gardens, vineyards and waste places[74].

Cultivation Notes: A very easily grown plant, succeeding in ordinary garden soil[1], though it prefers a reasonably well-drained and moderately fertile soil in a sunny position[200]. A very ornamental and polymorphic plant[1, 50]. It tends to be quite short-lived in cultivation but usually self-sows when well-sited[233, K]. It is closely related to M. excisa[74]. If the plant is cut back to the ground as it comes into flower, then it will produce a fresh flush of leaves for salads[K]. Plants seem to be immune to the predations of rabbits[233] and are seldom bothered by slugs[K]. Plants are prone to infestation by rust fungus[200].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

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