Species marsh mallow
Green leaves on white flowers and green stems.

marsh mallow

Althaea officinalis

Marsh mallow (Althaea officinalis) is an amazing species of perennial flowering herb which grows in wetlands, cultivated areas, and damp grounds. It produces cheerful, pink, and white flowers that are a welcome sight in the summer. Its stems and leaves contain a white, sweet-tasting, mucilaginous sap that has been used for centuries to make a variety of medicinal products. The root of this plant is high in vitamins and minerals, giving it antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-enhancing properties. Due to its gentle yet potent healing powers, marsh mallow has been used to soothe skin conditions, reduce swelling and pain, and even heal digestive disorders. This powerful herb is truly amazing.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 9

Flowers:

Pale pink Flowers

Sun:

full sun

Soil:

Sand, Loam

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Marsh mallow needs moderate amounts of water and should be watered twice per week. It is important to use lukewarm water and not cold water when watering marsh mallow. During the warm months of summer the plant should be watered more frequently to ensure it receives adequate water to grow well, ideally 3 times per week. During the cooler months of winter, reduce watering to just once per week. Soil should be allowed to partially dry out before watering again. Be careful not to overwater, which can cause root rot.

sunlight

Marsh mallow plants typically require at least 8 hours of direct sunlight per day in order to thrive. This direct sunlight should occur between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the UV rays are at their strongest. For best results, try to ensure that at least 6 hours of direct sunlight are available during this time. If direct sunlight is not available, then make sure that some bright, indirect sunlight is available during the day.

pruning

Pruning for marsh mallow is best done in early to late spring. First, remove any dead or damaged branches or stems. Then, thin out any overcrowded branches by cutting them at the node. You can also lightly trim the tips of longer branches to encourage bushier, fuller growth. It’s important to note that marsh mallow grows best in moist soils, so avoid over pruning and leave the plant with plenty of foliage to produce new growth.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Marsh mallow typically starts flowering in June.

Hardiness Map