Common Mallow (Malva sylvestris) is a charming flowering perennial known for its large, pink-purple blossoms with darker veining. Its upright stems and constant summer blooms bring a classic cottage-garden feel to borders, wildflower plantings, and pollinator habitats. A reliable, easy-growing perennial, it features rounded green leaves and nectar-rich flowers that attract beneficial insects throughout the season. Beautiful in both garden beds and naturalized landscapes, this mallow adds color, texture, and wildlife value with minimal maintenance.
Features
- Large pink-purple flowers with striking dark veining.
- Continuous summer blooming with strong pollinator appeal.
- Non-GMO Malva sylvestris perennial variety.
- Ideal for cottage gardens, borders, and wildflower meadows.
- Upright plants with attractive rounded foliage.
- Low-maintenance and adaptable to many soil types.
Specifications
- Common Name: Common Mallow, High Mallow
- Scientific Name: Malva sylvestris
- Plant Type: Perennial flowering herb
- USDA Zones: 4–8
- Bloom Color: Pink to purple with dark veins
- Bloom Season: Late spring through summer
- Height: 24–48 inches
- Spread: 12–24 inches
- Growth Habit: Upright, branching
- Heirloom: Yes
- GMO Status: Non-GMO
- Organic: Not certified organic
- Light Requirements: Full sun to light shade
- Soil Preference: Well-drained, average to rich soil
- Water Needs: Moderate
- Pollinator Friendly: Yes (bees, butterflies)
- Wildlife Attraction: Supports beneficial insects
- Maintenance Level: Low
- Plant Spacing: 12–18 inches
- Seed Viability: 2–3 years stored cool & dry
Planting Guide
- Sow indoors 6–8 weeks before frost or direct sow outdoors in spring or fall.
- For best germination, lightly scarify seeds (nick or rub with sandpaper).
- Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep in moist, well-drained soil.
- Keep soil evenly moist until germination (10–20 days).
- Transplant or thin seedlings to 12–18 inches apart.
- Choose a full-sun location for maximum flowering.
- Water moderately; avoid waterlogged soil.
- Remove spent flowers to extend blooming through summer.
- Allow some seeds to mature if natural reseeding is desired.
