Tree Lavatera
Lavatera species
Family: Malvaceae
What it is like
Lavatera species is an evergreen Shrub growing to 2.4 m (7ft 10in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8 and is not frost tender. It is in leaf all year. 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 cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.
Height (m): 2.4
Where it is found
Not known
S. Europe - Greece.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 2
Young leaves - raw or cooked. A mild flavour, but tough and not very worthwhile. When cooked the leaves have a somewhat slimy consistency. Flowers - raw. A pleasant mild flavour, they make a decorative addition to the salad bowl.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
Easily grown 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. An unknown species from Greece given to us by Bill of Falmouth. It is very fast growing, even in a very exposed position but is short lived, usually only 3 - 4 years before it starts breaking up in the wind. The plant is probably too floriferous for its own good but if self-sows freely. Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in a cold frame and only just cover the seed. Germination is usually quick and good. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough to handle and plant them out in early summer. Basal cuttings in spring. Cuttings of softwood in June/July.
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge;
Habit: Shrub
Hardiness: 7-10
Growth: Fast
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Dry, moist