Malva arborea (L.) Webb & Berthel.
Tree Mallow
Tree mallow (long known as Lavatera arborea) is a tall, fast-growing biennial or short-lived perennial in the mallow family, reaching 1–2m and occasionally up to 3m, with a thick, somewhat woody base and large, soft, downy, lobed leaves. From early summer to autumn it produces clusters of showy flowers, deep rose-pink to purplish with darker veins radiating from a near-black centre.
About
Tree mallow (long known as Lavatera arborea) is a tall, fast-growing biennial or short-lived perennial in the mallow family, reaching 1–2m and occasionally up to 3m, with a thick, somewhat woody base and large, soft, downy, lobed leaves. From early summer to autumn it produces clusters of showy flowers, deep rose-pink to purplish with darker veins radiating from a near-black centre.
It is essentially a coastal plant, growing on sea cliffs, rocky shores, shingle and small offshore islands, often flourishing on nutrient-rich ground around seabird colonies, and tolerating salt spray and exposure. It is considered native chiefly on the milder western and south-western coasts of Britain and Ireland, with many other occurrences thought to be introductions. The large flowers are well visited by bees. It makes a bold, salt-tolerant plant for coastal gardens and exposed, free-draining sites.
Also known as
Tree-mallow
Synonyms
Althaea arborea · Anthema arborea · Lavatera arborea · Lavatera arborea berlengensis · Lavatera arborea genuina · Lavatera arborea lasiocalyx · Lavatera arborea variegata · Lavatera eriocalyx · Lavatera veneta · Malva dendromorpha · Malva eriocalyx
Beta — under active development. This catalogue is still being built and accuracy-checked. The information here (including plant identifications, British native status, soil and sun/shade preferences) is provided in good faith for general guidance only and may contain errors or omissions. It must not be relied upon on its own — please confirm details with us before making planting, specification, foraging or purchasing decisions, and never eat or medicinally use any plant based on this catalogue alone, as some species are toxic. To the extent permitted by law, Phoenix Amenity Supplies accepts no liability for any loss arising from use of this information.