Tree mallow (Lavatera arborea)
At a glance
- Lifecycle
- Biennial
- Exposure
- Full sun
Cultivation
An easily grown plant, succeeding in any ordinary garden soil in sun or partial shade. Plants are very fast-growing and often flower in their first year from seed. There are some named forms developed for their ornamental value.
Propagation
Seed - sow late summer in situ. The seed should germinate within 4 weeks.
Edible uses
Young leaves - raw or cooked. A mild flavour, but the leaves are dry and hairy and not that agreeable in quantity on their own[K]. They can be used as part of a chopped mixed salad[K].
Medicinal uses
A poultice made from the leaves is used to treat sprains.
Habitat
Maritime rocks or waste ground by the sea, to 150 metres.
Native range
Coastal regions of Europe, including Britain, from Franceto the Mediterranean and N. Africa.
Scientific synonyms Malva arborea