Annual mallow
Lavatera trimestris
Family: Malvaceae
What it is like
Lavatera trimestris is a ANNUAL growing to 0.8 m (2ft 7in) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in) at a fast rate. It is in flower from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.
Height (m): 0.8
Where it is found
Sandy areas, mainly by the sea.
Europe - Mediterranean.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 2
Young leaves - cooked.
Oil: Oil
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
The seed contains up to 11.7% oil. It is greenish coloured with an iodine value of 120.9. The uses of this oil are not given, it is exceedingly unlikely to be poisonous and is therefore probably edible.
Oil: Vegetable oils have many uses, as lubricants, lighting, soap and paint making, waterproofing etc. This does not include the edible oils unless they are also mentioned as having other uses.
Attracts Wildlife: Plants noted for attracting wildlife
How it is grown
An easily grown plant, succeeding in any ordinary garden soil. Prefers a light well-drained moderately fertile soil in full sun. A soil that is too rich encourages foliar growth at the expense of flowering. Tolerates maritime exposure. Succeeds in dry soils. Plants are moderately fast-growing. A very ornamental plant. The cut flowers last a long time in water. A good bee plant.
Propagating it: Seed - sow in situ in the spring. Germination should take place within a few weeks.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Annual
Hardiness: 0-0
Growth: Fast
Soil: Light (sandy), medium
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Dry, moist