MarshMallow/Althaea officinalis

Marsh Mallow (Althaea officinalis) is a versatile and beneficial plant valued for its medicinal properties, historical uses, and ornamental appeal. Its soft, velvety leaves and delicate flowers make it a beautiful addition to gardens and a valuable herb in traditional medicine.

Uses:

• Medicinal: Marsh Mallow has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. It is known for its mucilaginous properties, which make it beneficial for soothing sore throats, coughs, and digestive issues. It is also used topically to treat minor skin irritations and wounds. Learn More
• Culinary: The root of the Marsh Mallow plant was historically used to make a sweet confection, the precursor to modern marshmallows. The leaves and flowers can be used in herbal teas.
• Ornamental: Due to its attractive flowers and foliage, Marsh Mallow is also cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscape designs.

Physical Characteristics:

• Height: Marsh Mallow typically grows to a height of 1 to 1.5 meters (3 to 5 feet).
• Leaves: The leaves are broad, rounded, and have a soft, velvety texture. They are usually green, with a slightly paler underside, and are often deeply lobed or serrated.
• Flowers: The plant produces delicate, pale pink to white flowers with five petals. These flowers are borne in loose clusters and bloom from mid-summer to early autumn. The blossoms are known for their attractive, star-like appearance.

Plant Care

• Height: 150cm+
• Type: Hardy
• Aspect: Sun
• Soil: Any/alkaline
• Flower colour: White
• Flowering period: July - August