Mallow Marsh (Althaea officinalis).

Mallow or Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis).

Sow Mallow seeds as follows:

1. Timing: Mallow seeds require cold stratification for germination, sow in autumn. For other times, mix seeds with damp sand in a bag and refrigerate for three to six weeks before sowing.Sow seeds directly outdoors in early spring when the soil has warmed up to at least 60°F (15°C). If in a cooler climate, start indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost.

2. Preparing the seeds: The seeds of Mallow Common have a hard seed coat that may benefit from scarification or soaking in warm water for 24 hours before planting to improve germination rates.

3. Choose a location: Mallow prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.

Further information.

Mallow, also known as marshmallow or Althaea officinalis, is a perennial herb that is native to Europe, North Africa, and Asia. It has been cultivated for centuries for its various medicinal uses and is now commonly found in gardens and naturalized in many parts of the world. Here is some information about Mallow:

1. Plant Description: Mallow grows to a height of 2-4 feet and has soft, velvety, and lobed leaves. It produces small, pale pink or white flowers in the summer, which are arranged in clusters on tall, erect stems. The roots are thick and tapering, and the whole plant is covered with fine, soft hairs.

2. Medicinal Uses: The leaves, flowers, and roots of mallow are rich in mucilage, which is a gel-like substance that is soothing to mucous membranes. This makes mallow an excellent demulcent, emollient, and vulnerary herb. It has been used traditionally to treat sore throats, coughs, digestive issues, skin conditions, and inflammation. It can be made into teas, tinctures, syrups, and infused oils for various medicinal preparations.

3. Culinary Uses: All parts of the mallow plant are edible. The young leaves and shoots can be eaten raw in salads or cooked like spinach. The roots can be boiled, roasted, or fried. The leaves have a mild flavor and are high in mucilage, making them a good thickener for soups, stews, and sauces. Additionally, the mucilage from the roots is used in the confectionery industry to make the base for marshmallows.

4. Growing Conditions: Mallow prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. It can be easily propagated from seeds or root cuttings and is relatively low maintenance once established. It can be a bit invasive due to its ability to self-seed, so it is important to control its spread in the garden.

5. Cultivation: Mallow is often grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers and foliage. It is also used in herbal teas and as a natural food coloring. The plant is quite hardy and can be found growing in disturbed areas, meadows, and along riverbanks.

6. Historical Uses: Ancient civilizations, including the Greeks and Romans, used mallow for its medicinal properties. The Egyptians used the root to soothe inflammations and the leaves to treat wounds. In medieval times, the leaves were used in cooking as a thickener and to treat digestive issues. The mucilage from the roots was also used as a toothpaste and to treat mouth ulcers.

7. Nutritional Value: Mallow is rich in vitamins A, B, C, and E, as well as minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, and zinc. It is also a good source of dietary fiber and mucilage, which can help with digestion and gut health.

8. Skin Care: The emollient properties of mallow make it useful in skin care products, particularly for soothing and moisturizing dry, irritated, or inflamed skin. It is often used in creams, lotions, and salves for conditions like eczema, dermatitis, and burns.

9. Other Uses: The mucilage from mallow has been used in the textile industry for sizing and finishing fabrics. The stems can be used as a substitute for toothpaste, and the roots can be roasted and used as a coffee substitute.

10. Cautions: Mallow is generally considered safe for most people. However, those with diabetes or taking diuretic medications should use it with caution as it may affect blood sugar levels and fluid retention. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult with a healthcare provider before consuming mallow in large quantities. Additionally, those with allergies to plants in the Malvaceae family, such as hibiscus or hollyhock, may also be allergic to mallow.

In summary, Mallow (Althaea officinalis) is a versatile plant with a long history of medicinal and culinary uses. It is known for its soothing and healing properties, particularly for the skin and digestive system. When using mallow for medicinal purposes, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional, especially for those with specific health conditions or concerns.

Do not take internally or use for medicinal purpose without expert medical advice.