Cheeseweed (Malva parviflora)

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

Malva parviflora is a ANNUAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in). It is not frost tender. 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 can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

mild pleasant flavour, they make a very acceptable alternative to lettuce in salads. — Leaves - raw or cooked as a potherb.; A mild pleasant flavour, they make a very acceptable alternative to lettuce in salads.; Immature seeds - raw or cooked.; They are used to make a creamed vegetable soup that resembles pea soup.

Habitat & North American Range

Fields and waste land. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9, Zone 10)