Munro’s Globemallow

(Sphaeralcea munroana)

Munro’s Globemallow (Sphaeralcea munroana)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Sphaeralcea munroana image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Sphaeralcea munroana, commonly known as Munro’s globemallow or Munro’s desert-mallow, is a perennial herb or subshrub in the mallow family. It is native to arid and semi-arid regions of the Intermountain West of the United States, including the Great Basin, where it is often found in sagebrush communities, desert flats, and on mountain slopes. Munro’s globemallow typically grows up to 80 centimeters (31 inches) tall from a thick root system and features woolly, gray-green foliage. Its flowers, which bloom from late spring to early summer, are apricot to red-orange and form in clusters on a raceme-like inflorescence, each petal just over 1 cm long. The flowers are moderately showy and attract pollinators.

Munro’s globemallow is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in challenging environments, making it suitable for xeriscaping and naturalistic plantings in dry regions. It is also used for erosion control on slopes and disturbed sites. In cultivation, it requires full sun and well-drained soils, preferring low water once established. While it is generally low-maintenance, overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

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

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Drought Tolerant, Groundcover, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Native to arid and semi-arid regions of the Intermountain West, including sagebrush communities and mountain slopes

Other Names

Common Names: Munro’s Desert-Mallow

Scientific Names: Sphaeralcea munroana , Sphaeralcea munroana var. subrhomboidea , Sphaeralcea munroana subsp. subrhomboidea , Sphaeralcea munroana var. munroana , Sphaeralcea subrhomboidea , Sphaeralcea munroana subsp. munroana , Malvastrum munroanum , Malva munroana , Malveopsis munroana , Nuttallia munroana

GBIF Accepted Name: Sphaeralcea munroana (Douglas ex Lindl.) Spach