Consulta Plantas

Care of the shrub Malva subovata or Sea mallow

The Malva genus, family Malvaceae, comprises about 30 species of herbaceous plants and shrubs distributed throughout Africa, Asia and Europe. Some species are: Malva subovata, Malva arborea, Malva canariensis, Malva sylvestris, Malva hispanica.

Common name: Sea mallow. Scientific synonym: Lavatera maritima. This species is native to the Mediterranean basin.

They are fast-growing, erect evergreen shrubs that reach 1.8 meters (5.9 feet) in height. The leaves are grayish-green in color and resemble those of the Maple. The abundant and showy white flowers have a purple center. They can bloom from spring to mid-fall.

Sea mallow is used as windbreak screens, as isolated specimens and in bushy groups. It's ideal for Mediterranean coastal gardens. It attracts butterflies, bees and birds.

Malva subovata needs full sun exposure and a warm, dry climate. It resists occasional frosts down to -5 ºC (23 ºF).

The soil can be a normal well-drained garden soil with coarse sand and containing a little organic matter; Sea mallow also grows on sandy or calcareous soils.

Lavatera maritima resists drought well, so they should be watered moderately, waiting for the substrate to dry out.

Fertilize with compost every 2 years at the end of winter.

Prune after flowering to maintain a compact habit and eliminate dry branches.

Malva subovata is a plant resistant to the usual pests and diseases but sensitive to excess watering.

Sea mallow is propagated from seeds sown in spring.

Images of the shrub Malva subovata or Sea mallow