Malva neglecta Dwarf mallow (Malvaceae)

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Malva neglecta
Dwarf mallow
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The Malva neglecta plant species is found in Britain. It is a member of the Malvaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Dwarf mallow.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Malva neglecta
Common Name:  Dwarf mallow
Family:  Malvaceae
Author:  Wallr.

Known Hazards:  When grown on nitrogen rich soils (and particularly when these are inorganic), the plant tends to concentrate high levels of nitrates in its leaves[76]. The leaves are perfectly wholesome at all other times.

Mature Height:  0.6   Mature Width:

Habitat:  Waste and cultivated ground[17], usually on dry soils, frequently in coastal habitats, on dry walls or as a weed of cultivated ground[200].

Medicinal Information: All parts of the plant are antiphlogistic, astringent, demulcent, diuretic, emollient, expectorant, laxative, salve[9, 222, 238]. The leaves and flowers can be eaten as part of the diet, or a tea can be made from the leaves, flowers or roots[222]. The leaves and flowers are the main part used, their demulcent properties making them valuable as a poultice for bruise, inflammations, insect bites etc, or taken internally in the treatment of respiratory system diseases or inflammation of the digestive or urinary systems[222, 238]. They have similar properties, but are considered to be inferior to the marsh mallow (Althaea officinalis), though they are stronger acting than the common mallow (M. sylvestris). They are seldom used internally[4]. The plant is an excellent laxative for young children[7].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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