Marsh Mallow is a
native
perennial plant of the UK, typically found growing in coastal areas and waste ground, to a mature height of up to 150cm.
Marsh Mallow is distinguished from other mallows by: its intermediate height (up to 1.5 metres); downy green stems; triangular-shaped and pointy-lobed leaves; and pale, cup-shaped flowers. Marsh Mallow was used in traditional herbal medicine to sooth irritation in the mouth and upper gastrointestinal tract. Its roots have also been used to flavour desserts and sweets, including the original form of marshmallow.
Botanic classification and naming: Marsh Mallow is a member of the Mallow (Malvaceae) family. The genus name
'Althaea' identifies the plant as a Marsh Mallow and its species name 'officinalis' means 'herbal medicinal plant'.
Benefits: Provides a food source for caterpillars of the Painted Lady butterfly.
Benefits to wildlife are also indicated with orange icons in the plant profile bar at the top.
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