Common mallow (Malva neglecta)

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

Malva neglecta is a ANNUAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from June to September, and the seeds ripen from July to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves, Shoots

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

mild pleasant flavour, they are said to be highly nutritious. — Leaves and young shoots - raw or cooked.; A mild pleasant flavour, they are said to be highly nutritious.; They can be added in quantity to salads, and make an excellent lettuce substitute, they can also be cooked as greens.; The leaves are mucilaginous, when cooked in soups etc they tend to thicken it in much the same way as okra (Abelmoschatus esculenta).

Habitat & North American Range

Waste and cultivated ground, usually on dry soils, frequently in coastal habitats, on dry walls or as a weed of cultivated ground. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)