Tree Mallow
lavatera olbia
Also known as: ["Malva arborea","Tree Mallow"]
Overview
A tall, herbaceous perennial plant with large, lobed leaves and showy, hibiscus-like flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Genus: | Lavatera |
| Botanical Name: | Lavatera olbia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny, sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth annually.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but blooms less.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday heat in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent mildew.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing near reflective surfaces that intensify light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, ensure soil dries slightly between waterings, and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Use raised beds in heavy soil; avoid compacting soil; mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature
Prefers 60–85°F (15–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm, temperate conditions.
Protect from frost; water early in the day; avoid sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Dilute fertilizer to half-strength; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with stems or leaves.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–4 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic bag; avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or bud; thin out crowded areas.
Pruning Plan
Promote bushier growth, remove dead or weak stems, and encourage flowering.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners, clean shears, gloves.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and vigor.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture with a finger; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution to a depth of 6–8 inches. Allow excess water to drain freely and avoid waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once per week during active growth; reduce frequency in winter to every 2–3 weeks, allowing soil to dry between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in extreme heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Provide frost protection with mulch or row covers; move potted plants indoors; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering due to excessive heat and dryness.
Solution: Increase watering frequency, provide afternoon shade, and use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10) every 4–6 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLavatera olbia is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from exposure or ingestion of this plant by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicLavatera olbia is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from exposure or ingestion of this plant by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicLavatera olbia is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It has no known adverse physiological effects when handled or ingested in typical amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Lavatera olbia grow?
A: It can grow up to 6 feet tall.
Q: Does Lavatera olbia attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Is Lavatera olbia suitable for coastal gardens?
A: Yes, it is salt-tolerant and thrives in coastal conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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