Malva olbia
garden tree mallow
A vigorous shrub to 2.5m high, with 3-5 lobed, densely downy grey-green leaves. Deep pink flowers, with slightly notched petals and darker veins, are produced all through the summer
Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
1.5–2.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green Grey Silver | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Pink | Green Grey Silver | ||
| Autumn | Green Grey Silver | |||
| Winter | Green Grey Silver |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Malvaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Semi evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Malva can be annuals, biennials or perennials, with rounded, often palmately lobed leaves and 5-petalled, open funnel-shaped flowers in the leaf axils or in terminal racemes
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Thrives in light, moderately fertile, well drained soil in full sun; may need support if grown in richer soils (see staking perennials). Borderline hardy; shelter from cold winds and provide protection in cold winters
Propagation
Propagate by seed, or by softwood cuttings from stems or basal shoots in early summer. Plants can be short-lived so regular propagation is recommended
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Gravel garden
- Mediterranean climate plants
- Patio and container plants
- Wildlife gardens
- Conservatory and greenhouse
- Flower borders and beds
- Wall side borders
Pruning
Pests
May be susceptible to aphids
Diseases
May be susceptible to stem rot, a rust, and soil-borne fungal diseases
Get involved
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