Tree Mallow Pictures

Introduction

The Tree Mallow is a beautiful flowering plant that belongs to the Malvaceae family, also known as the mallow family. It is native to the Canary Islands, but it can also be found in other regions of the world, including Europe, Africa, and Asia. The Tree Mallow is a perennial shrub that can grow up to 3 meters tall and produces large, showy flowers that come in a range of colors, including pink, purple, red, and white.

Appearance

The Tree Mallow has a woody stem that is covered in soft, hairy leaves. The leaves are green and heart-shaped, with serrated edges. The plant produces large, showy flowers that can be up to 10cm in diameter. The flowers come in a range of colors, including pink, purple, red, and white. They have a distinctive cup-shaped structure with five petals that form a funnel shape. The center of the flower is filled with a cluster of stamens that are covered in yellow pollen.

Cultivation

The Tree Mallow is a hardy plant that is easy to grow and requires little maintenance. It prefers well-drained soil and a sunny position, but it can also grow in partial shade. The plant can be propagated by taking cuttings in spring or by sowing seeds in autumn or early spring.

Planting

To plant the Tree Mallow, prepare the soil by digging in some compost or well-rotted manure. Dig a hole that is twice the size of the root ball and place the plant in the hole. Fill the hole with soil and firm it down around the plant. Water the plant well after planting.

Care

The Tree Mallow requires little care once established. Water the plant during dry spells, but do not overwater it as this can lead to root rot. Mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds. In late winter or early spring, prune the plant back to about a third of its size to encourage new growth and maintain its shape.

Uses

The Tree Mallow has a range of uses, both ornamental and medicinal. The plant is often grown for its beautiful flowers, which can be used to add color to a garden or as cut flowers in a vase. The flowers are also attractive to bees and other pollinators, making them a valuable addition to a wildlife garden.

Medicinal

The Tree Mallow has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. The plant contains mucilage, a sticky substance that can soothe and protect mucous membranes in the body. It has been used to treat a range of conditions, including sore throats, coughs, and stomach ulcers. The leaves can also be used to make a poultice that can be applied to wounds to promote healing.

Culinary

The Tree Mallow is also edible, and its leaves can be used in a range of culinary dishes. The leaves have a mild, slightly sweet flavor, and can be used raw in salads or cooked as a vegetable. They can also be used to thicken soups and stews, similar to okra.

Conclusion

The Tree Mallow is a beautiful and versatile plant that has a range of uses, both ornamental and medicinal. It is easy to grow and requires little maintenance, making it a great addition to any garden. The plant's large, showy flowers and attractive foliage make it a valuable addition to a wildlife garden, and its medicinal properties make it a valuable plant to have on hand for treating a range of conditions.