Also known as White Checkerbloom · White Checkermallow
Prairie mallow (Sidalcea candida) is a striking perennial producing spikes of pure white, saucer-shaped flowers. Ideal for sunny borders and native plantings.
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.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Well-drained, moist
50% intensity
Hardy perennial
50% intensity
Prefers moderate temperatures, hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly in spring; avoid over-fertilizing.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly during the growing season, especially during dry spells, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in fall and winter.
Sidalcea candida prefers consistent moisture but dislikes waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot. Ensure good drainage.
Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage further blooming and maintain a tidy appearance. In late fall or early spring, cut back the entire plant to the ground to remove dead or withered foliage and promote vigorous new growth for the next season.
Propagate by division in early spring or fall. Carefully dig up the plant and separate the root ball into sections, ensuring each section has a healthy root system and several shoots.
Replant divisions immediately into well-draining soil.
Repotting is generally not necessary for Sidalcea candida as it is often grown as a perennial in garden beds. If grown in containers, repot every 2-3 years in spring into a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining potting mix to refresh the soil and provide more space for roots.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Prairie Mallow (Sidalcea candida)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Sidalcea |
| Species | Sidalcea candida |
Similar in genus Sidalcea
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
