Malva arborea (also known as Lavatera arborea, or, more recently as Malva eriocalyx), the tree mallow, is a species of mallow native to the coasts of western Europe and the Mediterranean region, from Ireland and Britain south to Algeria and Libya, and east to Greece.
Tree mallow is fairly disease-resistant and typically does not suffer from many ailments. However, it can be vulnerable to pests and diseases present in its surroundings. Such infections are generally mild. In terms of care, this plant requires moderate maintenance. Regular pruning is needed to maintain a tidy appearance and support healthy growth. Fertilizing can also help encourage flowering. Tree mallow is appropriate for anyone with outdoor space, such as a garden or patio, and does not demand much gardening experience. It may need extra attention when grown indoors.
How to keep Lavatera Arborea.
Light
Tree mallow favors locations with strong sunlight for healthy growth. Its native habitat is made up of areas that receive abundant sun throughout the day. Very limited light can impede its proper development, whereas excessive exposure has not been reported as harmful.
Temperature
Tree mallow is native to areas with mild climates. Its optimal growth temperature ranges from 68 to 95 °F (20 to 35 °C). In very hot or very cold seasons, provide shade or shelter to moderate its exposure to temperature.
Fertilizer
The best time to fertilize a Tree mallow is in early spring, when it is coming out of dormancy and entering active growth. Fertilization supplies essential nutrients for healthy growth. Although Tree mallow has relatively low fertilizer needs, applying fertilizer annually can improve its survival and encourage better, longer-lasting flowers.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial, Annual, Biennial
- Genus
- Lavatera
- Family
- Malvaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 4-8
- Mature Height
- 0.49 m to 3.05 m
- Mature Spread
- 2.13 m
- Leaf Color
- Green
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen, Semi-evergreen
- Flower Color
- Purple, Lavender
- Flower Size
- 3.05 cm to 4.06 cm
- Bloom Time
- Early summer, Mid summer
- Planting Time
- Spring
- Harvest Time
- Mid summer
- Native Area
- Libya, Turkey, Tunisia, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Montenegro, Albania, Ireland, United Kingdom, Greece, Croatia, Algeria, France
Other names.
