Tree Mallow (Lavatera arborea)

Family: Malvaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Lavatera arborea is a BIENNIAL growing to 3 m (9ft) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in) at a fast rate. It is not frost tender. It is in flower from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

mild flavour, but the leaves are dry and hairy and not that agreeable in quantity on their own. — Young leaves - raw or cooked.; A mild flavour, but the leaves are dry and hairy and not that agreeable in quantity on their own.; They can be used as part of a chopped mixed salad.

Habitat & North American Range

Maritime rocks or waste ground by the sea, to 150 metres. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)