Mallow, common (Malva pussilla Sm., Malva rotundifolia L.)

Mallow, common description

Mallows are low-growing weeds with many branches and taproots.

Propagation

Annual or biennial. Seeds.

Similar species

Cheeses.

Distribution

Mallows are found throughout Canada.

Identifying Mallow, common

Seedling

Cotyledons heart-shaped, with lobes at base, glossy, with prominent veins. True leaves alternate, round with heart-shaped base, crinkly, cupped, with rounded teeth on edges.

Mature plant

Stems prostrate, sprawling or sometimes erect, much branched, 4 to 24 inches high at maturity. Stems hairy, tips sometimes turning upwards.



Leaves alternate, round to kidney-shaped, with heart-shaped base. Shallow lobes and teeth on leaf edges, usually five lobes. Leaves crinkly, with long stalks, smooth to slightly hairy.

Root structure description

Taproot, stout

Flowers

Pale blue to white, petals are 1/2 inch long. Seeds in flat disc that breaks into eight to 11 sections when ripe.