Mallow (Malva sylvestris)
Common Names of Mallow:
Mallow, Round Dock, High Mallow, Cheeses, Custard cheeses, Fairy cheeses, Lady’s Cheese, Truckles of Cheese.
​
Description of Mallow:
Common Mallow is an attractive and versatile plant with a rich history of use in food and medicine. Belonging to the Malvaceae family, it boasts purplish-pink flowers on a coarse, hairy stem with lobed, crinkly leaves resembling ivy. The plant typically grows 40-120 cm tall and produces edible flat discs known as 'nutlets.' It is classified as a biennial or perennial and is native to various habitats, including cultivated land, grassland, roadsides, scrub, and wasteland.
​
Habitat of Mallow:
Common Mallow is commonly found in hedgerows, path edges, roadsides, light woodland, scrub, hedges, and waste ground. It is a frequent sight in many areas globally and is non-native to the UK, likely introduced by the Romans.
​
Identification of Mallow:
The leaves of Common Mallow are roughly round to pentagon in shape, with five lobes and a crinkled texture, measuring 5-10cm in diameter. The flowers are pink to purple, trumpet-shaped, and have five petals. The fruit, referred to as 'cheeses,' resemble a wedge of cheese and are a distinctive feature.
​
Food Uses of Mallow:
Various parts of Common Mallow are utilized for culinary purposes. The leaves, flowers, roots, and 'nutlets' can be harvested and consumed. 'Nutlets' are snacked on like 'cheeses,' leaves are cooked like spinach or deep-fried, and flowers and buds can be pickled. Nutritionally rich, Common Mallow contains proteins, fats, vitamin C, vitamin A, carotenoids, omega-3, and omega-6 fatty acids, contributing to potential health benefits.
​
Medicinal Uses of Mallow:
In traditional folk medicine, Common Mallow has been a versatile remedy. It was once considered a 'cure-all' in Medieval herbal medicine, addressing conditions from stomach ache to problems during childbirth. Medicinally, it has been used as a laxative, liver cleanser, treatment for blood poisoning, and remedy for urinary problems, rheumatism, heartburn, coughs, and cuts. The mucilaginous roots were especially valued for poultices and soothing ointments.
​
Are Mallow and Hibiscus the same plant?
​
Hibiscus and mallow belong to the same botanical family, Malvaceae, but they are not the same plant. Hibiscus is a genus within this family, known for its large, vibrant flowers commonly found in tropical and subtropical climates.
Popular species include Hibiscus rosa-sinensis (Chinese hibiscus) and Hibiscus syriacus (Rose of Sharon).
​
Mallow refers to plants within the genera Malva and Lavatera, also part of the Malvaceae family. These plants are generally smaller and less showy than hibiscus, with flowers that are usually pink, purple, or white.
Common mallow (Malva sylvestris) and tree mallow (Lavatera arborea) are well-known species in this group.
While hibiscus and mallow share some botanical characteristics, they differ in appearance, size, and horticultural use.
​
Is Mallow a UK wildflower?
​
Yes, mallow is indeed considered a wildflower in the UK. Common mallow (Malva sylvestris) is a native perennial plant widely distributed across the country. It often grows in various habitats such as roadsides, waste ground, and field margins. The plant is distinguished by its densely hairy stems, heart-shaped or lobed leaves, and attractive funnel-shaped flowers, typically lilac or pink with darker veins. These flowers significantly attract bees, butterflies, and hoverflies, contributing to the local ecosystem.
​
Safety Notes for Mallow:
​
Caution is advised regarding the seeds, as they may be poisonous if eaten in large quantities.
​
Other Uses of Mallow:
Apart from its applications in food and medicine, Common Mallow has limited additional uses. However, its pretty flowers can be used for decorative purposes.
​
Other Information for Mallow:
Common Mallow holds significance in Jewish culture, where it is considered one of the most important wild plants, with its common name in Hebrew and Arabic translating to 'bread.'
​
Besides its practical uses, Common Mallow can serve as a yellow, cream, or green dye. Additionally, it plays a role in herbal medicine, acting as a laxative and poultice for external wounds. The leaves and seeds, high in mucilage, have been traditionally used to treat inflammation. Teas made from the seeds can form a soothing film over mucous membranes, relieving minor pain and inflammation.