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Musk mallow

How to identify Musk mallow (Malva moschata)

Musk mallow, also known as Hollyhock

Musk mallow is distinguished by its lush, herbaceous growth reaching heights of 2 to 3 feet (60 to 90 cm). From the axils of its deeply lobed leaves, striking, large pink blossoms unfurl in a delicate arrangement of five petals, each flower spanning roughly 1.5 to 2 inches (4 to 5 cm) in diameter. Blooming prolifically from early summer through fall, its stems and leaf undersides carry a soft pubescence. Notably, when observed up close, the flowers exude a subtle, musky fragrance.

Lifespan

Lifespan: Perennial, Annual

Plant Type

Plant Type: Herb

Leaf Type

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Musk mallow

1

Lush herbaceous growth reaching 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) distinguishes musk mallow.

2

Large pink flowers, 1.5-2 inches (4-5 cm) with five petals, bloom abundantly from early summer.

3

Deeply lobed leaves, 3-4 inches (7.6-10.2 cm) wide, have palmate veins and toothed lobes.

4

Flowers emit a mild musky fragrance, adding to their distinct appearance.

5

Stamens fused into a column enhance flower identification in musk mallow.

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Detailed Traits of Musk mallow

Leaf Features

Musk mallow leaves are palmately veined, measuring 3-4 inches (7.6-10.2 cm) in diameter. They exhibit narrowly toothed lobes, creating a distinct, deeply-lobed appearance. The leaves are typically rounded with a slightly coarse texture and a vibrant green color. The veins radiate out from a central point, akin to the spokes of a wheel, providing a structured and symmetric look. This venation pattern and the uniquely toothed lobes are key identifiers for musk mallow leaves.

Leaf Shape

Circular

Musk mallow Leaf Shape image
Leaf Base

Cordate

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Flower Features

The flowers of musk mallow are approximately 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) across, showcasing a delicate pink hue. Each flower features five notched, wedge-shaped petals that are arranged in a symmetrical pattern. The stamens are notably fused into a column, enhancing identification. These flowers exude a mild, pleasing fragrance and typically bloom from late spring to mid-summer, adding vibrant color to their surroundings.

Musk mallow Flower image
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Key Facts About Musk mallow

Attributes of Musk mallow
Lifespan
Perennial, Annual
Leaf Color
Green
Flower Size
3 cm to 5 cm
Flower Color
Pink
White
Stem Color
Green
Pink
Leaf type
Deciduous
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Scientific Classification of Musk mallow

Family
Mallow
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Genus
Mallow
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Species
Musk mallow (Malva moschata)
Learn More About the Musk mallow

Distribution Map of Musk mallow

Native to Europe and parts of Asia, the musk mallow has been introduced into North and South America. It is only considered invasive in West Virginia. It can often be found in fields and may naturalize along roadsides. Due to its ease in growth and attractive blooms, the musk mallow has been cultivated in gardens.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
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