Malva neglecta

Malva neglecta-flower

Error creating thumbnail:

Malva neglecta in Antalya by David Merrick 18

Malva neglecta in Edinburgh by David Merrick 01

Malva neglecta in Antalya by David Merrick 09

Malva neglecta in Antalya by David Merrick 16

Malva neglecta in Edinburgh by David Merrick 04

Malva neglecta, commonly known as common mallow, is a species of flowering plant in the family Malvaceae. It is native to Europe and Asia but can be found in many parts of the world as an introduced species and often a garden weed. This plant is known for its round, lobed leaves, small pink or white flowers, and its ability to thrive in a variety of environments, including roadsides, fields, and cultivated lands.

Description

Malva neglecta is a low-growing, herbaceous perennial plant that typically reaches heights of up to 60 cm. Its leaves are round, with 5 to 7 lobes, and are arranged alternately on the stem. The leaves and stems are often covered with a soft down. The flowers of Malva neglecta are small, with five petals, and can be pink, white, or pale purple in color. They are produced in the axils of the leaves from early spring to autumn. The fruit is a disc-shaped schizocarp, which splits into several wedge-shaped sections at maturity.

Habitat and Distribution

Originally from Europe and Asia, Malva neglecta has been introduced to many other parts of the world, including North America, Australia, and New Zealand. It is commonly found in disturbed sites, waste areas, gardens, and agricultural land. The plant prefers sunny locations and can grow in a variety of soil types, demonstrating a particular resilience to urban pollution and disturbed soils.

Uses

While often considered a weed, Malva neglecta has several uses. The leaves, young shoots, and seeds are edible and have been used in traditional medicine and as a food source. The leaves can be eaten raw in salads or cooked like spinach, and the seeds are used in some cultures as a cheese-making coagulant. In traditional medicine, Malva neglecta has been used for its anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and emollient properties. It is believed to soothe digestive and respiratory ailments and has been used as a remedy for skin irritations and wounds.

Cultivation

Malva neglecta is easy to grow and can be propagated by seed. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions, including poor soils. The plant requires minimal care and is drought-tolerant once established. However, due to its weedy nature, care should be taken to prevent it from spreading uncontrollably in garden settings.

Conservation

Although Malva neglecta is widespread and not currently considered at risk, its presence in certain areas can indicate soil disturbance or pollution. As such, it can be an important species for monitoring ecosystem health and soil conditions.