seashore mallow
Kosteletzkya virginica
Cycle:
Herbaceous Perennial
Watering:
Frequent
Propagation:
Seed Propagation,Cutting,Division,Layering Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
6 - 9
Flowers:
Pink Flowers
Sun:
Full sun
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
High
Maintenance:
Low
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Invasive:
Yes
watering
Seashore mallow (Kosteletzkya virginica) should be watered on a regular basis throughout the growing season. Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil feels dry to the touch and water until it begins to trickle out of the bottom of the pot. Depending on the season and weather conditions, this may be as often as 2-3 times a week during very hot and dry weather, but may be as little as once a week in milder conditions. When the plant is actively growing, be sure to provide supplemental water if the soil begins to dry out quickly, as the plant may wilt and suffer stunted growth. In cooler seasons, water may need to be reduced; however, keep in mind this may cause flowering to slow or stop. During temperatures below 40°F, it's best to keep watering at a minimum or to wait for the warmer months to resume regular watering.
sunlight
Sea Shore Mallow is a native plant species that grows best in full sun and does best with 8 or more hours of direct sunlight each day. It is best suited to climates that don't experience too much heat or extreme cold, and it is also known to do well over winter in slightly cooler temperatures. Since it prefers full sun, it should be planted in a location that receives direct sunlight for most of the day. Early morning and late afternoon sunlight is the most beneficial for the health of the plant, but it is important to note that it needs to be in full sunlight for most of the day. It is important to remember that a little shade in the middle of the day can be beneficial to keep the plant from becoming too dry in extreme heat.
pruning
Seashore mallow should be pruned in the late winter to early spring when the plant is dormant. This should be done prior to any new growth or flowering for best results. Pruning should be done lightly and strategically. Old, woody stems that are not flowering should be removed, as well as any dead or diseased growth. This will open the plant up to any new growth and flowering buds that may appear. However, avoid cutting large portions of the plant off, as it may damage the structure. Additionally, any crossing branches should be removed, as this can cause the plant to become unruly. Be sure to sterilize your pruning tools to avoid spreading any type of disease or fungus to the plant as well.
