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For successful seedlings,
see the growing notes at the bottom of the page!
Musk mallow (Malva moschata) is a short-lived perennial that reseeds easily, ensuring its continued presence in gardens. This low-maintenance plant produces beautiful pink or white flowers throughout the summer, adding a soft splash of colour. Both its flowers and young leaves are edible: the flowers can brighten salads or be used in infusions for their medicinal benefits, while the young leaves add a mild flavour to salads. It prefers well-drained soil and moderate to full sun, fitting seamlessly into naturalized gardens in Quebec.
Medicinal and Culinary Uses
Musk mallow is known for its medicinal properties. Its leaves and flowers are emollient, soothing, and anti-inflammatory. In infusions, they are often used to ease inflammation of the respiratory and digestive tracts, helping relieve sore throats, dry coughs, and gastric irritations. In cooking, the flowers and young leaves are valued for their mild taste and tender texture, making them an excellent addition to salads.
Ecological Roles
Musk mallow attracts various pollinators, including bees and butterflies, that are drawn to its abundant nectar. With its ability to reseed naturally, it supports garden biodiversity by providing food resources for local pollinators. Easy to grow and requiring little maintenance, this plant integrates well into ecological and naturalized gardens, adding colour while supporting native wildlife.
Akène cannot assume any responsibility for the use of plants for therapeutic purposes. Always seek advice from a professional before using a medicinal or edible plant.
Sowing and Growing
Technical Details
Seeds per packet: 80
Family: Malvaceae
Scientific name: Malva moschata
Life cycle: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 3
Soil type: Silty to clayey
Soil moisture level: Dry to slightly damp
Soil - additional attributes: Well-drained
Light: Sun
Blooming: June to August
Spacing: 45 cm
Height: 60 cm
Deer resistance: Moderate
Stratification: No
Scarification: Sanding
Germination time: 15 days
Sowing depth: 5 mm