Desert Mallow, Globe Mallow (Sphaeralcea ambigua)

Desert Mallow, Globe Mallow
Scientific Name: Sphaeralcea ambigua A. Nelson
Family: Malvaceae

Show Larger Picture
Sphaeralcea sp. in late March Recommended Temperature Zone:
sunset: 10-13
USDA: 9-10

Frost Tolerance: Hardy in Phoenix
Sun Exposure: Full sun
Origin: USA (Utah, Arizona, California)
Growth Habits: Shrubby perennial, up to 30 inches tall (75cm), 30 inches spread (75 cm)
Watering Needs: Little water when established, good drainage
Propagation: Seeds or division in spring

A number of people are allergic to the Desert Mallow, for this reason it is often called "Hierba Muy Mala" in Spanish. There are over 10 different species of Sphaeralcea in the Southwest with varying flower color and leaf shape.

Cultural Practices:
Although it is a desert plant, the desert mallows grow better in a fertile soil. Provided that he soil is well drained, it needs regular water the first year, particularly if it has not been planted in the fall. Planting it in the fall allows it to grow its root system before the punishing heat of Phoenix summer.

Blooming Habits:
The coral flowers of the desert mallow come in summer to fall. They are mallow like with 5 petals.

Gardening in Arizona Home Page | List of All the Plants | More in the Malvaceae family