Althaea officinalis (Marsh Mallow) seeds

British native wildflower found most often near the sea as it prefers relatively rich, moist soil and is intolerant of cutting and grazing.  This uncommon perennial wildflower has soft, hairy leaves and tall stems with small clusters of large, saucer shaped, very pale pink, almost white flowers.  Flowering from May to September, it produces an abundance of nectar for many bee species.

Hardy Perennial
Flowers: May to September
Height: 1.2m, Spread: 80cm
Position: Sun or semi shade in moist/wet soil.

Packet of 50 seeds

UK bred seed

GROWING GUIDE

These seeds have a dormancy which needs to be broken by a period of cold.  Sow indoors at any time or outdoors in autumn.

Outdoors: Scatter the seed on well raked soil, rake in lightly and water.  If sowing in rows, leave 25cm between rows. Germination can take several months and is most likely to occur in spring after dormancy has been broken by the winter cold.  When they do appear, keep the seedlings watered and thin out as necessary.  To prolong flowering and prevent self seeding, remove the seedheads just as the petals start to fall.

Indoors:  Sow on the surface of moist compost and cover very lightly with a fine sprinkling of compost, vermiculite or perlite.  Seal in a polythene bag and place in the fridge for 4 weeks.  After this, move to a warm place or propagator and maintain at around 21C.  After germination, grow on in slightly cooler conditions, around 15C, repotting as necessary. After all risk of frost has passed, gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions and plant out 25cms apart.