Marsh mallow (Althaea officinalis) is a hardy herbaceous perennial, the root of which was once used to flavour the sweets of the same name. Grown and used for thousands of years for a wide variety of medicinal and practical uses, marsh mallow is found from western Europe to central Asia in damp habitats such as marshes and riverbanks, coastal regions and salt marshes – hence its name. A substantial plant, marsh mallow can grow up to 1.8 m in height and spread, forming a clump of mid-green leaves, shallowly lobed at the edges, which are softly hairy on both sides. Stems clothed with pale pink or white flowers are borne from midsummer to autumn and are very attractive to butterflies.
Marsh mallow plant is not related to two other plant genera that are also known as mallow. These are Lavatera (annual and perennial types) and Malva, including both musk mallow (Malva moschata) and field mallow (Malva sylvestris).
How to grow marsh mallow plantGrow marsh mallow in fertile, moist soil in full sun, and give it plenty of room to grow. Remove faded flower stems and tatty growth after flowering, and cut back the whole plant while dormant.
What is marsh mallow root used for?The botanical name of marsh mallow, Althaea, comes from the Latin ‘altheo’ meaning ‘I cure’ and records of its use exist from the times of the Greek and Roman civilisations. The roots, leaves and flowers have all been used to soothe inflammation and irritation in the digestive system, respiratory system, urinary tract and skin. Herbalists supply marsh mallow in a variety of forms including a tincture, syrup, and powder. As with all herbal medicines, use only as instructed by a qualified herbalist or medical practitioner.
Marsh mallow plant forms deep tap roots
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