Mallow (Malva cathayensis)
Also known as: Mallow Malva
The plant you're describing is a type of mallow, an annual variety cultivated for its ornamental appeal. It features vibrant purple flowers that bloom all summer long. Sometimes referred to as Creeping Charlies, this plant's seeds are often called cheeses.
In This Article
Attributes of Mallow
Lifespan
Biennial, Perennial
Plant Type
Herb
Plant Height
50 cm to 90 cm
Spread
30-90 cm
Leaf Color
Green
Flower Size
3 cm
Flower Color
Pink Purple Red
Images of Mallow
Quickly Identify Mallow
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Malva cathayensis can be identified by its palmate leaves with serrated edges, pink to purplish flowers, and a typical mallow seed pod.
Scientific Classification of Mallow
Phylum
Vascular plants
Class
Dicotyledons
Order
Mallows, rock-roses, and allies
Family
Mallow
Genus
Mallow
Species
Mallow
Planting and Growing of Mallow
Care Difficulty
Easy
Watering Schedule
Every 2 days
Sunlight Requirements
Partial sun
Sunshine Duration
4-8 hours
Ideal Temperature
65-75℉
Soil Type
Potting Mix, Peat Mix
Soil pH
6.5-7.5
Fertilizer Type
Balanced
Pruning Season
Spring, Summer
Pruning Area
Branches, Leaves
Pruning Frequency
2 times a year
Repotting Season
Spring
Pot Type
Plastic, Ceramic
How to Water Mallow?
Malva cathayensis prefers to have its soil kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. A good rule of thumb is to water until the excess water starts draining from the bottom of the pot. This ensures that the roots are getting adequate moisture without drowning them.
What are the symptoms of an underwatered Mallow?
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What should I do if my Mallow is not getting enough water?
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What are the symptoms of an overwatered Mallow?
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How to save an overwatered Mallow?
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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Mallow?
Malva cathayensis favors partial to full sun for four to six hours daily, aiding robust growth, flowering, and overall vitality of the plant.
More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→
What is the optimal lighting for Malva cathayensis?
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What solutions ensure optimal lighting?
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Benefits of optimal lighting for Malva cathayensis?
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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Mallow?
The ideal temperature range for Malva cathayensis is between 65°F and 75°F. Within this range, the plant can perform photosynthesis efficiently, supporting healthy growth and blooming. Maintaining these temperatures helps ensure the plant will thrive and produce vibrant flowers.
What Soil is Best for Mallow?
Malva cathayensis thrives in well-drained soil, preventing water from pooling around the roots and thus reducing the risk of root rot. This condition is crucial for the plant’s overall health and robustness. The plant prefers soil with moderate fertility. Too rich soil may lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers, balancing nutrients helps in optimal blooming. While drainage is important, the soil should also be able to retain some moisture to sustain the plant during dry spells without water logging, balancing between dryness and moisture retention is key.
How to Fertilize Mallow?
For Malva cathayensis, it's ideal to use a balanced fertilizer with a ratio like 10-10-10 or 20-20-20. During the growing season, use approximately half the recommended dosage provided on the fertilizer package to avoid over-fertilization.
How to Prune Mallow?
Start by pinpointing stems that appear overgrown or are obstructing other parts of the plant. Trim these stems back to just above a node, encouraging the growth of new shoots and flowers. To maintain a pleasing shape, regularly trim any wayward growth and ensure an even distribution of branches. This not only enhances the plant's appearance but also promotes better air circulation within the foliage.
More About Pruning Techniques→
How to Propagate Mallow plant?
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Collect mature seeds from the plant. Dry them in a cool, dry place for a few days to enhance their germination potential. This treatment can improve the success rate of germination.
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Select healthy branches devoid of any disease or pest. Cut a section around 6 inches in length with several nodes. Remove leaves from the lower part to prevent rot when inserted into the growing medium.
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To propagate through division, carefully dig up the whole plant, ensuring not to damage the roots. Use a clean knife to divide the root ball into smaller sections, ensuring each piece has roots and shoots.
How to Repot Mallow plant?
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Malva cathayensis shows signs it's time to repot when you notice roots growing out of the drainage holes or when its overall growth appears stunted. Another indicator is when the soil is retaining less moisture, causing the plant to dry out quickly after watering. Observing these signals ensures you're providing the best care and habitat for its optimal growth.
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Select a pot that is 2-3 inches wider in diameter than the current one. A slightly larger pot aids sufficient root expansion and prevents root binding. Ensure the pot has ample drainage holes, as this prevents water accumulation and helps maintain healthy soil aeration, which is crucial for this plant's development.
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Opt for a well-draining potting mix. This type of soil prevents water-logging, protecting the roots from rot. It helps in maintaining a balanced moisture level, ensuring the roots receive adequate air and nutrients, crucial for the plant's vigorous flowering and leaf development.
