Tree Mallow

Tree mallow is a semi-evergreen subshrub with downy gray-green, palmately lobed leaves and open flowers with purple-magenta markings. The flowers can be pink, lilac-pink or white, and appear from late summer into mid-autumn; the Royal Horticultural Society lists a mature height of 1–1.5 metres and spread of 0.5–1 metre. [RHS plant profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/24487/lavatera-maritima/details) ## Garden use Use this sun-loving shrub in coastal, Mediterranean-style or informal borders, gravel gardens and large containers. Its rounded, branching form brings a soft backdrop of gray-green foliage and repeated open blooms. Allow room for a spread of about 2–3 feet, and choose a sheltered position where winters are cold or wet. ## Growing conditions Plant in full sun and well-drained chalk, loam or sandy soil. The RHS rates it H3 in the UK, so this rating should not be read as a USDA zone; in colder areas, shelter it from very low temperatures and winter wet. It can be short-lived, especially where conditions are unsuitable. ## Maintenance Cut back the growth in autumn after flowering. Check the base and stems periodically for rot or rust, especially in heavy or persistently wet soil. Container plants can be overwintered under cover in colder regions.