Common mallow
Malva sylvestris
Botanical family: Malvaceae
Malva sylvestris, the mallow of paths with pink flowers veined with purple. Soft and mucilaginous, it is eaten whole and feeds foragers all summer.
Full sun
Ordinary, well-drained
Moderate, tolerates drought well
Biennial to perennial, hardy
Overwinters in your zone
Role in permaculture
A generous nectar plant of the fine season (the dark streaks on its petals guide foragers towards the nectar), edible from top to toe. Hardy and frugal, it self-seeds year after year.
Companions
No companion planting is documented for this plant: no recommended neighbour, no neighbour to avoid.
Seasons & availability
Leaves from spring onwards, mauve flowers all summer, from June to September; dried leaves and flowers keep for infusions.
Available: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December.
Guidance for the oceanic / temperate climate; it may vary with your region, altitude, exposure and growing method.
Sources
- Plants For A Future, « Malva sylvestris » (pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Malva+sylvestris)
- Tela Botanica, « Malva sylvestris L. » (tela-botanica.org/bdtfx-nn-40893-description)
Nutritional & medicinal properties
For educational purposes. Not a substitute for medical advice. Effects depend on the form, the dose and personal context.
Precautions & contraindications
A gentle emollient, without notable toxicity in common uses; its slightly laxative effect makes itself felt in large quantity. Reserve any sustained medicinal use for professional advice.
Species & varieties
The best-known species and varieties in France.
Species
Common varieties
Before you forage
This plant is often gathered from the wild. Only pick what is abundant, never a protected species, and never uproot a whole plant (roots) without the landowner's permission. Rules vary by country and region, check locally.
Key takeaways
- • Prefers full sun exposure.
- • Ideal soil: ordinary, well-drained.