Musk Mallow

(Malva moschata)

Musk Mallow (Malva moschata)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Malva moschata, commonly known as Musk Mallow, is a herbaceous perennial native to grasslands, meadows, and open woodlands of Europe and southwestern Asia. It is adapted to a variety of habitats, including those at elevations up to 4921 feet. This plant typically grows to a height of 24 inches and features hairy stems. Its foliage is mid-green, and the leaves are deeply lobed. During the summer months, Musk Mallow produces showy, five-petaled pink flowers with a delicate musky fragrance, which are attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Musk Mallow is valued for its ease of maintenance and the charming, musky-scented flowers that add a soft, romantic touch to garden borders and wildflower meadows. It is also used in informal cottage garden settings. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to part shade and thrives in well-drained, moderately fertile soil. While it is drought-tolerant once established, regular watering during prolonged dry periods will keep it looking its best. Caution is advised when planting Musk Mallow outside its native range, as it can become invasive, particularly in Scandinavia, New Zealand, and North America. It is recommended to check local regulations before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 2-3 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Pink
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Fragrant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Grasslands, meadows, and open woodlands

Other Names

Common Names: Rose Mallow

Scientific Names: , Malva moschata, Alcea pinnatifida, Bismalva laciniata, Bismalva moschata, Malva alcea subsp. moschata, Malva alcea var. laciniata, Malva cordistipula, Malva dethardingii, Malva dethardingii

GBIF Accepted Name: