Australian Hollyhock, Native Hollyhock, Flood Mallow
Lavatera plebeia
Family: Malvaceae
What it is like
A stout shrub. It completes its life cycle over two years. It grows 2-4 m high and spreads 1-3 m wide. The branches are spreading. The younger parts are covered with velvety hairs in some varieties. The leaves are 1-20 cm long by 1-15 cm wide. The leaves are almost round and divided into 5-7 lobes. The edges are wavy. There are irregular teeth. The flowers are white or pale lilac. They occur singly or in clusters near the ends of branches. The flowers are 6 cm across. The fruit is round and has 10-15 flat, kidney-shaped small fruitlets. Possibly now Malva weinmanniana (Besser ex Rchb.) Conran - or it could be an incorrect identification. Lavatera plebeia is now Malva preissiana Miq.;
There are about 25 Lavatera species.
Where it is found
It is a temperate plant. It will grow in a variety of soils. It is often in locations that are occasionally flooded. It can tolerate some frost. It does not like dry periods. Tasmania Herbarium.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia (country/location of origin), Britain, Europe, Tasmania (country/location of origin)
How it is used for food
The roots are used for food.
Edible parts
Leaves, roots
How it is grown
Plants can be grown from seed. It can also be grown from cuttings. It needs regular pruning to keep it as a bush. This also enables the bush to live longer.
It is fast growing.