Growing Guide: Marshmallow

Scientific Name Althaea officinalis
Common Names Marshmallow, Marsh Mallow, White Mallow
Family Malvaceae (Mallow Family)
Origin Europe and Western Asia
Plant Type Medicinal Herb / Flowering Perennial
Life Cycle Perennial
Food Forest Layer Herb / Groundcover Layer
Mature Size 3–5 ft tall and wide
Light Full Sun to Part Shade
Water Needs Moderate to High; prefers moist soil
Harvest Season Summer to Fall (roots harvested in fall)
Time to Harvest 1 year+ for roots; leaves/flowers earlier
Self-Fertile Yes
Growth Rate Moderate
Zones USDA Zones 4–9
Florida Native No
Propagation Seeds, Cuttings, Division
Seasonal Characteristics Deciduous in winter; blooms in summer