The listing, 20 + marshmallow seeds has ended.
Though it is known more for the confectionery marshmallow, which adopted this classical botanical's namesake, Marsh Mallow was widely used as a medicinal by the Greeks and Romans and other Mediterranean cultures of the ancient world. The botanical name of Marsh Mallow, Althea officinalis, is from the Greek "altho", which mean "to cure", underscoring the significance of this handsome herb to Greek healers. Traditionally, Marsh Mallow has been used to soothe coughs, sore throats, indigestion, and as a topical agent it is said to be anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and wound-healing.
Perennial (zones 3-9)
14-21 days
2 years
Loamy, rich, moist
Partial, full, shade
Root, leaf, flower
12" apart
16 months
Growing Guide
GROWING NOTES
Marsh Mallow will grow to heights of 36" tall or more, and begin to show broad, light pink flowers along the think herbaceous stalk in mid to late summer.
Marsh Mallow prefers partial sun, but can grow well in shade or full sun. It prefers a rich soil that will retain moisture.
MAINTAINING
For best results, direct sow in late summer or early fall. If starting in the spring, a 3 or 4 week period of stratification is recommended. Seeds can be sown in flats and placed into the refrigerator. Keep moist and check regularly. If seeds start to germinate, transplant immediately. If you do not have adequate space to refrigerate entire flat, mix seeds with moist but well drained starting medium in large ziploc baggie and place in fridge.
After stratification, seeds are best started indoors for a few weeks before transplanting outside in mid to late spring. Keep germinating seeds moist, and transplant to larger containers, gradually acclimating to outdoor conditions. Transplant outdoors in mid to late spring.