Sidalcea acuta
Family: Malvaceae
What it is like
Sidalcea acuta is a PERENNIAL. 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.
Height (m): 0
Where it is found
Waste ground and scrub forest in Uttar Pradesh.
E. Asia - Himalayas.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
One report says that the plant is sometimes used as food, but gives no more information. It is most likely that the leaves are used, though the flowers, mature and immature seeds should also be edible.
Medicine
Rating: 1
One report says that the plant has medicinal uses, but gives no details.
Miscellany: Various medicinal actions that need more clarification.
Other
Rating: 1
A fibre is obtained from the stem.
Fibre: Used for making cloth, rope, paper etc.
Miscellany: A rag-bag of items that are difficult to categorise.
How it is grown
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain. However, judging by its native range, it is possibly hardy outdoors at least in the milder areas of the country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Prefers a deep fertile well-drained but moisture-retentive soil in full sun or with some shade at the hottest part of the day.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in a greenhouse. When the seedlings are large enough to handle, prick them out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer. Division in the spring.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness:
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist