Malope trifida

Mallow Wort is a flowering annual in the large Malvaceae family, which includes hundreds of plants more commonly known as mallows. It is often used as a border plant, an ornamental, or grown for cut flowers. It is a tall plant, reaching 5 feet high, with a red, trumpet-like flower on a single, stout stem. In the wild, flowers are deep purplish-red, but in cultivation, flowers blossom in shades of white, pink or red.

The Mallow tolerates average soil although compost and occasional fertilizer adds to its health and bloom potential. It tolerates some dryness, but needs regular watering if rain is absent. Removing or deadheading spent flowers encourages new flower growth. Blooms can occur from mid-summer through early fall with maintenance and regular watering as needed. Although an annual in the mid-Atlantic areas, it arose in warmer Mediterranean regions and can be a perennial in tropical climates.

It is readily available as seeds that should be sown after the last frost in the Spring.

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems:

No known diseases or insect pests.