Scarlet Globemallow

(Sphaeralcea coccinea)

Scarlet Globemallow (Sphaeralcea coccinea)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Sphaeralcea coccinea, commonly known as Scarlet Globemallow, is a perennial herb native to the open prairies and desert scrublands of the central and southwestern United States. It has a low, spreading habit, typically growing 10–30 cm tall from rhizomes. The plant features grayish stems covered in dense, star-shaped hairs and alternately arranged leaves. The palmately lobed leaves are 2–5 cm long, with 3–5 main wedge-shaped segments, and are notable for their gray hairs on the undersides. Scarlet Globemallow is distinguished by its 2-cm-wide, saucer-shaped, reddish-orange flowers with five notched, broad petals, which bloom in small terminal clusters from May to October. The flowers are moderately showy and attract pollinators.

Scarlet Globemallow is valued for its drought tolerance and vibrant flowers, making it suitable for xeriscaping and naturalistic plantings in arid regions. It is often used in wildflower gardens, as ground cover, and for erosion control. This plant thrives in full sun and requires minimal water once established, preferring well-drained soils. It is relatively low-maintenance, but gardeners should be aware of its potential to spread via rhizomes.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Subshrub, Herb
  • Height: 1.5-2 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Red, Orange
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Groundcover, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

native to the open prairies and desert scrublands of the central and southwestern United States

Other Names

Common Names: Copper Mallow, Moss-Rose, Orange Globe-Mallow, Prairie Mallow, Red False Mallow, Scarlet Globe-Mallow, Scarlet Mallow, Orange Globemallow, Red Falsemallow, Prairie-Mallow

Scientific Names: , Sphaeralcea coccinea, Malvastrum coccineum, Sphaeralcea coccinea var. dissecta, Sphaeralcea coccinea subsp. dissecta, Malva creeana, Malva coccinea, Malvastrum micranthum, Sida dissecta, Cristaria coccinea

GBIF Accepted Name: Sphaeralcea coccinea (Nutt.) Rydb.