Mediterranean Dwarf Mallow (Malva subovata)

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates hot, dry Mediterranean summer conditions

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Watering Allow top 2 cm of soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot

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Temperature Hardy to 5°C; thrives in warm temperate climates; protect from hard frost in winter

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Leaf: Round to ovate, softly hairy, with shallowly lobed margins
Flower: Pale pink to white, five-petaled, ruffled edges, clustered in leaf axils
Stem: Erect, branched, covered in fine, soft hairs

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Watering

Keep soil consistently moist during active growth periods

Fertilization

Diluted balanced feed once monthly. Use low-strength, balanced feed to support flowering without foliage burn

Banana peel tea：Soak chopped banana peels in water for 3 days; dilute 1:10 for root drench; discard solids to avoid pest attraction

Pruning

Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering
Trim back leggy stems in mid-summer to promote bushier, compact growth
Cut back foliage to ground level in late autumn after plants die back for winter

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Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no adverse effects reported

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; leaves and flowers are edible in small quantities

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Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental garden plant; young leaves and flowers are edible in salads or as garnishes