Mallow Flowers Requirements

Mallows produce some of the largest flowers found in perennial plants.

Mallows belong to the hibiscus family of plants. These flowering perennials bloom in summer and fall. The mature plant size depends on the variety, but mallows can produce flowers up to 10 to 12 inches in diameter on bushes that can reach up to 8 feet tall. Confederate rose mallows bloom in shades of white, pink or red. Great rose mallows only bloom in light pink. Mallows have similar growing requirements; but refer to the plant care label when purchasing new plants to see any special needs for the specific variety.

Climate

Mallows grow in most climate areas of the United States, though some of the less hardy varieties only grow in areas with minimal winter freezes. Some varieties remain evergreen or produce leaves on shrub-like growth in USDA Hardiness Zones 9 and 10. In Zones 4 through 8 these same plants die back to the ground each winter then produce new stems and leaves in spring. The plants need sunny, warm summers to bloom well.

Soil

Beds with well-drained soil provide the best growing area for a mallow plant. Choose a bed with a rich, loamy soil or work compost into the site prior to planting to help drainage and improve the quality of the soil. While mallows tolerate a range of soils, those prone to sogginess or standing water may lead to root damage. Mallow may not bloom as profusely in sandy soils that are low on organic matter.

Sunlight

Areas that receive at least six hours of sunlight a day encourage the most blooms on mallow plants. While most varieties tolerate some shade, flowering is reduced when the plants don't receive ample sunlight. Poor sunlight also inhibits growth of the plant so it doesn't reach its full height. If only shaded areas are available, choose a location that receives full sun in morning rather than a site that receives all day shade or only filtered sunlight.

Moisture

Mallow doesn't tolerate dry soils and drought can reduce flowering or cause plants die back. Watering that moistens the top six to eight inches of soil once or twice a week provides enough moisture in most sites. A layer of mulch over the planting bed further helps retain moisture, especially during summer when moisture would otherwise evaporate quickly from the soil.

Winter Protection

Provide some form of winter protection in areas where freezing occurs to help ensure the mallow roots survive the cold season. Plants in these areas usually die back once the ground begins to freeze. Once the stems die, cut them back to the ground. The mallow grows new stems in spring once the weather begins to warm. A thick four-inch mulch layer provides insulation to the roots and helps protect them from winter cold. Not all mallow varieties survive freezing temperatures, making it vital to only plant varieties known to grow well in your area.

References

• Texas A&M Extension; Hardy Hibiscus; Dr. William C. Welch
• Clemson Cooperative Extension; Hibiscus; Karen Russ; December 2004