Musk mallow - Malva moschata (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Musk mallow

Also known as: Hollyhock

Musk mallow (Malva moschata) is a flowering plant native to Europe. Musk mallow was introduced into the New World early in the colonial period and has since spread around the world. There are blue, purple, pink, red, and white varieties of this species. Both the common name and specific epithet reference the "musky" scent the plant gives off.

Scientific classification

Species

Musk mallow (Malva moschata)

Mallows, rock-roses, and allies

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Perennial, Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer

Bloom Time

Early spring, Summer, Fall

Harvest Time

30 cm to 1.3 m

Plant Height

30 cm to 60 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

3 cm to 5 cm

Flower Size

Pink, White

Flower Color

Green, Pink

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Images of Musk mallow

Distribution of Musk mallow

Distribution Map

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

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Grassy places, pastures, hedgebanks

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Musk mallow is a very common perennial primarily loved for its musky scent. Its flowers last for most of the summer, making it a welcome addition to any bed. Musk mallow goes perfectly in cottage or wildflower gardens and contrasts nicely with most other varieties of flowers. It grows rather tall, so plant it near the middle or back if grown with groundcover plants. Geraniums, fuchsias, and anemones are great options for companion plants.

Symbolism

Sweet disposition

Interesting Facts

Floriography is the proper term for the Victorian language of flowers, a type of secret code, which people used during Victorian times and before. This secret coded communication was used to express certain feelings that otherwise might seem inappropriate to express. The musk mallow symbolized a sweet disposition and was often given to young ladies.

Name Story

Musk mallow: This plant is cultivated mainly for the seeds which are used in perfumes as a substitute for musk. It is also an essential source of oil used in traditional medicine and flavoring. Therefore, it is called musk mallow.

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Quickly Identify Musk mallow

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

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

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

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

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

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Care Guide for Musk mallow

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Native to temperate regions, musk mallow thrives with consistent moisture and moderate drought tolerance. Water weekly, aligning with natural rain in outdoor settings. As an herbaceous perennial, adequate moisture during the growing season is vital for optimal growth and flowering.

Fertilize: Musk mallow benefits from a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) at planting and during flowering for optimal bloom and vigor. Annual spring feeding is adequate; avoid over-fertilization. Post-flowering, reduce feeding to prevent frost vulnerability. Ensure thorough watering post-fertilization for nutrient absorption.

Pruning: Musk mallow features soft pink flowers and finely divided leaves. Employ deadheading and early-season pruning for a bushier shape. Optimal pruning occurs from early to late spring, supporting size control and plant health, ensuring vibrant garden displays.

Propagation: To propagate musk mallow, sow seeds in Spring, lightly covering them with soil. This process has moderate difficulty, with emerging seedlings indicating success. Ensure optimal light and soil moisture for the best results.

Repotting: Repot musk mallow every 2-3 years in spring for optimal recovery after winter. Use a medium-sized container for root expansion. Post-repotting, water moderately and place in full sun to partial shade for best growth.

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Images of Musk mallow

Distribution of Musk mallow

Culture

Quickly Identify Musk mallow

Care Guide for Musk mallow

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