Common mallow (Thespesia lampas)

Also known as: Forest Hibiscus, Indian Tulip Tree

Thespesia lampas, a herb that grows to a height of 2–3 meters, has roots and fruits traditionally employed to address conditions such as gonorrhea and syphilis. The Korku tribe, located in Maharashtra and Nepal, specifically utilizes a root paste from this plant to treat jaundice.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Common mallow

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Tree, Shrub

Plant Height

3 m

Spread

2 to 3 meters

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

5 to 8 cm

Flower Color

Yellow

Images of Common mallow

Quickly Identify Common mallow

To identify Thespesia lampas, look for its distinctive large yellow flowers with a dark red center. The leaves are large, heart-shaped, and glossy green. The plant typically has a bushy growth habit.

Scientific Classification of Common mallow

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Mallows, rock-roses, and allies

Family

Mallow

Genus

thespesia

Species

Common mallow

Planting and Growing of Common mallow

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

8-12 hours

Ideal Temperature

68-86℉

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 Common mallow?

When watering Thespesia lampas, ensure the soil is thoroughly moistened but not waterlogged. You should aim for 500 ml of water each time, enough to reach the roots but not so much that it pools on the surface. Check that the topsoil, about an inch deep, is moist before considering another watering.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Common mallow? ›

What should I do if my Common mallow is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Common mallow? ›

How to save an overwatered Common mallow? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Common mallow?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun

Duration of light: 4 to 6 hours

Thespesia lampas prefers partial sun, which provides optimal photosynthesis and growth conditions without risking leaf burn. Access to moderate light levels supports vibrant foliage and flowering.

How much light does Thespesia lampas require daily? ›

What are the signs of optimal lighting? ›

How to achieve ideal lighting? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Common mallow?

Ideal Temperature: 68 ~ 86℉

Thespesia lampas thrives best in an environment where the temperature consistently stays between 68°F and 86°F. This range ensures optimal growth, as it allows for efficient photosynthesis and metabolism, facilitating healthy foliage and overall plant vitality.

What Soil is Best for Common mallow?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Thespesia lampas thrives in well-drained soil conditions. Good drainage prevents root rot, ensuring healthy root systems and promoting robust plant growth and vibrant foliage. The plant prefers soil that is moderately fertile. Adequate nutrient levels support steady growth and flowering, enhancing the plant's overall vitality and resilience against pests and diseases. Maintaining moderate moisture in the soil is essential. This ensures that the plant does not experience stress from drought conditions, aiding in continuous growth and lush, dense foliage.

How to Fertilize Common mallow?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Thespesia lampas, the amount of fertilizer depends on the growth stage and the time of year. During the growing season, use a liquid fertilizer diluted to half the recommended strength. Apply just enough to moisten the root zone thoroughly. Avoid over-wetting, as this could lead to nutrient runoff or root damage.

How to Prune Common mallow?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

To prune Thespesia lampas, begin by removing any dead or diseased branches to prevent the spread of illness. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to make cuts at a 45-degree angle just above a leaf node. This helps in promoting new growth. Thespesia lampas benefits from shaping to ensure it grows in a balanced manner. Trim back any overly long branches to create a uniform appearance. Focus on maintaining an open center to improve air circulation, which reduces the risk of fungal infections. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Common mallow plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring, Summer

Harvest seeds from mature pods once they have dried and turned brown. Ensure the seeds are clean and free from any fungal growth before storage or planting.

Select a healthy branch and cut a section approximately 6-8 inches long. Make sure the cutting includes a few leaves and is taken from a node for better rooting success.

For seeds, plant them in a well-drained soil mix at a shallow depth. For cuttings, dip the base in rooting hormone, plant in a sandy mix, water, and cover with plastic to retain humidity.

How to Repot Common mallow plant?

Repotting frequency: Every two years

Repotting should be considered when Thespesia lampas shows visible root-bound symptoms, like roots growing out of the drainage holes or stunted growth. It's ideal to repot during the active growing seasons of spring or summer for better recovery.

Select a pot with good drainage capabilities and slightly larger than the current one. A larger pot allows room for growth and improves aeration which is vital for preventing overwatering and root rot issues.

Opt for a well-draining potting mix that can hold some moisture yet drain excess water effectively. This prevents waterlogging, fosters good root health, and encourages the plant's robust growth and vigor.