Also known as Dwarf Mallow · Malva Rotundifolia · Round-Leaved Mallow
Malva pusilla, or Low Mallow, is a low-growing annual herb with small, delicate pink to white flowers, often found in disturbed soils and waste areas.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering, but tolerates some shade.
Consistent Moisture
50% intensity
Keep soil moderately moist, allowing the top layer to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers average room temperatures between 18-24°C. Can tolerate cooler temperatures outdoors.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Low
25% intensity
Does not require heavy feeding. A light application of balanced liquid fertilizer in spring is usually sufficient.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Malva pusilla prefers consistently moist soil, especially during its active growing season. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering in cooler months when the plant's growth slows down.
Pruning is generally minimal for Malva pusilla. You can deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms and prevent self-seeding if unwanted.
Light trimming can be done in late spring or early summer to maintain a tidy appearance or shape.
Malva pusilla is easily grown from seed sown directly outdoors in early spring after the last frost. Seeds can also be started indoors 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost. Germination is usually good.
It can also self-seed readily in suitable conditions.
Malva pusilla generally does not require frequent repotting. If grown in a container, repot only when the plant becomes root-bound, typically every 1-2 years, in the spring.
Use a well-draining potting mix and a pot only slightly larger than the current one.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Low Mallow (Malva pusilla)
Where Low Mallow (Malva pusilla) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Malva |
| Species | Malva pusilla |
Similar in genus Malva
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
