Malva trimestris

Tree Mallow is a flowering, upright, annual in the Mallow family with a shrubby appearance that is native to the Mediterranean. Tree Mallow can reach a height of 4 feet with a 3 foot spread and may need staking or support. It is noted for its summer to early fall bloom of ornamental, saucer-shaped, white to pink, 3 inch flowers. The rounded, medium green, 3 inch leaves have heart-shaped bases and 3 to 7 shallow lobes.

Tree Mallow does best in average, moist to dry, well-drained soil in full sun, although the plant will benefit from some afternoon shade in locations where summers are hot. Although the plant can be grown in many USDA zones, it does prefer summers where the nights are cool and rain is moderate. Tree Mallow can tolerate nutritionally poor soil and maritime exposure.

You can sow seed directly in the garden two weeks before the last frost date, but to encourage an early bloom, you should start seed indoors 6 to 8 weeks before last frost date. Deadhead spent flowers to extend bloom period. The plant can self-seed in some areas.

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems:

Susceptible to Japanese Beetles. Root rot and leaf spots may occur.