Sphaeralcea
( sfeer - RAL - see - uh )
At-A-Glance InformationThis genus of flowering perennials needs full sun and little water, making them great candidates for water-wise gardens. The flowers will attract butterflies to your yard. Flowers are shaped like mini-hollyhocks, and provide color for accents in borders in hot, dry spots in the garden. These plants are woody at the base, and herbaceous above.
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Sphaeralcea Species and Varietals
Globe Mallow growing zones vary depending on the species; for more information, see the descriptions below. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.
Sphaeralcea ambigua (Apricot Mallow) This species grows well in zones 3 and 7-24, and is native to Utah, Arizona, Mexico, Nevada, and California. It reaches 3-4 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide, with hairy stems. Leaves are grey-green and flowers are pink to orange, though white-flowering forms are available as well. Flowers bloom in summer or fall. This species is best in desert-like climates, and does not like winter wet periods. Varieties include 'Louis Hamilton' (with deep orange-red flowers) and 'Papago Pink' (with pink blooms). |
Sphaeralcea munroana This species of Globe Mallow grows well in zones 1-3, 7-10 and 14-24, and is native to the western mountain foothills. Reaching 3 feet tall and 1.5 feet wide, this plant has upright stems and grey-green leaves. Salmon flowers are borne on 'wands' in the middle of summer and early fall. |
Caring for Sphaeralcea
These plants need well-draining soil and extra water can cause issues like weediness and rusting foliage. Old stems can be cut back almost to the ground before spring growth begins to clean up the look of this somewhat wild plant.
Propagation
Problems and Pests
Gallery
Videos
A video all about growing camellias successfully
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Propagating camellias
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Resources
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page 609, Sphaeralcea
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