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Genus Sphaeralcea (False mallow, Globe mallow)

Sphaeralcea Sphaeralcea munroana Photo/Illustration: Courtesy of High Country Gardens
Common Name: False mallow, Globe mallow Synonyms: Iliamna
These annuals, perennials, and shrubs in 60 or so species are native to dry mountain slopes of the Americas and South Africa. They are grown mainly for their showy, saucer-shaped flowers in white, red, purple, pink, orange, or yellow. Foliage is often downy and may be coarse.
 Noteworthy characteristics: Showy, colorful, saucer-shaped flowers. Most species in this genus are native to North America. Some species are used as food plants by butterfly larvae.
 Care: Provide full sun and very well-drained, gravelly soil. Protect from winter moisture. Grow in a sheltered location in colder climates. Move plants into a greenhouse if necessary to avoid heavy winter rains.
 Propagation: Start seed, or divide plants, in spring.
 Problems: Hollyhock rust. Wet conditions often kills these plants.

Species, varieties and cultivars for genus Sphaeralcea

Sphaeralcea ambigua Sphaeralcea ambigua
(Desert mallow, Globe mallow) Be the first to rate this plant
Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

This shrubby, woolly perennial is native to the warmest, dry regions of the US and Mexico. Its large, rose-like salmon-colored flowers appear in loose clusters from spring to frost. It grows to 3 feet tall and almost as wide, and can bloom nearly year-round in warm regions.