Mallow-wort (Malope trifida)

Mallow-wort

Malope trifida

Vibrant ruffled blooms bring cottage garden charm. Annual flowering herb; common names: Mallow-wort, Purple Spanish Mallow.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; thrives in bright, direct sunlight for most of the day, with light afternoon shade in extreme heat
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Watering Water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Tolerates mild light frost but prefers warm temperatures; grows best at 15–25°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Heart-shaped, softly hairy, 5–10 cm long with serrated margins
  • Flower: Ruffled, funnel-shaped blooms 5–8 cm wide in pink, purple, or white, with dark central veins
  • Stem: Erect, branched, covered in fine, silvery hairs
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged

Fertilization

Feed every 2–3 weeks with balanced, diluted fertilizer. Discontinue fertilization once blooms fade to support natural seed production

Banana peel tea:Soak 2–3 chopped banana peels in 1L water for 3 days; strain and use the liquid to water plants to encourage larger, longer-lasting blooms
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering through the growing season
  • Trim leggy stems to promote bushier, more compact growth
  • Remove yellowing or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and appearance
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats

Humans: No known toxicity to humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental garden plant, cut flower for floral arrangements