Scarlet Globemallow
sphaeralcea coccinea
Also known as: ["Prairie Mallow","Scarlet Mallow"]
Overview
A hardy perennial herb native to North American prairies and deserts, known for its vibrant orange-red flowers and drought tolerance.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Genus: | Sphaeralcea |
| Botanical Name: | Sphaeralcea coccinea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, xeriscapes, or sunny borders
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day). Tolerates partial shade but blooms best in direct sunlight.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday heat in summer; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is ideal; avoid deep shade; rotate pots for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in dormant periods
Water at the base of the plant to avoid foliage wetting; ensure soil dries between waterings; adjust frequency based on season and weather.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Ensure fast drainage; avoid heavy clay; amend with organic matter if needed.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–9. Prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C); tolerates cold but may struggle above 90°F (32°C) without adequate water.
Protect from frost; water deeply in heat; adjust care for seasonal extremes.
Fertilizing
rarely required, if used then every 3–4 months with a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer
Use sparingly; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; stop in winter.
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: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity (70–80%), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like cactus soil or perlite/sand blend.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining medium, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use fresh cuttings; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back stems to just above a leaf node or bud; thin out crowded areas.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead/damaged growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune before active growth; remove dead/diseased parts.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose right pot size; use fresh soil; ensure drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry between waterings. Reduce watering in winter to once a month or less, depending on conditions.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or compost to improve drainage and structure.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering, or stunted growth in extreme heat; leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Plants may become dormant or die back in freezing temperatures, though roots often survive to regrow in spring.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; avoid overwatering before freezes; protect in containers by moving to sheltered spots.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may cease; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade if possible; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSphaeralcea coccinea is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicSphaeralcea coccinea is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Humans
Non-toxicSphaeralcea coccinea is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It has no known significant toxic effects on human physiology.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Scarlet Globemallow deer resistant?
A: Yes, it is generally deer resistant due to its tough foliage.
Q: Does Scarlet Globemallow require much water?
A: No, it is highly drought tolerant and thrives in dry conditions.
Q: Does Scarlet Globemallow attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is a great attractant for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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