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(Malvella leprosa)
Alkali Mallow (Malvella leprosa)
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Anthony Valois and the National Park Service
Public domain
Image By:
Anthony Valois and the National Park Service
Recorded By:
Copyright:
Public domain
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Anthony Valois and the National Park Service | License Type: Public domain | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/public-domain/ | Uploader: Stickpen | Publisher: Wikimedia Commons | Title: Malvellaleprosa.jpg | Notes: User created page with UploadWizard |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Malvella leprosa, commonly known as Alkali Mallow, is a perennial herb that is native to arid and semi-arid regions including grasslands, alkaline flats, and desert scrub in the Western United States, Mexico and South America. It typically grows to a height of 1 foot and can spread 1-3 feet wide. Alkali Mallow has a sprawling habit with heart-shaped leaves and bears small, hibiscus-like flowers that are yellow with a white center, blooming from spring through fall. The flowers are modest in size but can add a splash of color to arid landscapes.
This plant is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in challenging conditions, making it suitable for xeriscaping and restoration projects. It is often used in naturalistic plantings and as a ground cover in areas with poor soil quality. Alkali Mallow requires minimal maintenance once established and is an excellent choice for low-water gardens. It prefers full sun exposure and can tolerate a range of soil types, provided they have good drainage. While it is not commonly affected by diseases, it can occasionally suffer from rust if conditions are too moist.CC BY-SA 4.0
This plant is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in challenging conditions, making it suitable for xeriscaping and restoration projects. It is often used in naturalistic plantings and as a ground cover in areas with poor soil quality. Alkali Mallow requires minimal maintenance once established and is an excellent choice for low-water gardens. It prefers full sun exposure and can tolerate a range of soil types, provided they have good drainage. While it is not commonly affected by diseases, it can occasionally suffer from rust if conditions are too moist.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Herb
- Height: 0.8-1.4 feet
- Width: 1-3 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: White
- Flowering Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
- Leaf Retention: Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Low
- Drainage: Medium, Fast
Common Uses
Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance
Natural Habitat
native to arid and semi-arid regions including grasslands, alkaline flats, and desert scrub in the Western United States, Mexico and South America
Other Names
Common Names: Alkali-Mallow, Alkali-Sida, Ivy-Leaf-Sida, Oreja De Ratón
Scientific Names: , Malvella leprosa, Sida hederacea, Sida leprosa, Sida leprosa var. hederacea, Malva leprosa, Malva hederacea, Malva californica, Malva plicata, Disella hederacea
GBIF Accepted Name: Malvella leprosa (Ortega) Krapov.