Malva olbia
TAXONOMY
FamilyMalvaceae
GenusMalva
Zone8
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Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Malva olbia, commonly known as the tree mallow, is a member of the Malvaceae family. It is native to the Mediterranean region and is typically found in subtropical climates. This plant is a subshrub or shrub and is known for its attractive, hibiscus-like flowers. It has a dormancy period during the cooler months.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Althaea Hispida
Lavatera Acutifolia
Lavatera Africana
Lavatera Hispida
Mallow
Althaea olbia
Lavatera olbia
Lavatera pseudo-olbia
Malva pseudo-olbia
Olbia hastata
Olbia hispida
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterMoist
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity60%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Malva olbia thrives in bright, direct sunlight and prefers moderate temperatures. It should be watered when the soil partially dries out, and it benefits from moderate humidity levels. Regular pruning helps maintain its shape and encourages new growth.Soil
Malva olbia prefers well-draining loamy soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types but performs best in soil that retains some moisture without becoming waterlogged. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 5-10-10. Fertilize the plant during the growing season to support its development. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.Repotting
Repot Malva olbia when it outgrows its current container or when the soil becomes compacted. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage. Repotting is best done in the early spring before the growing season begins.Propagation
Malva olbia can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. For seed propagation, sow seeds in a well-draining soil mix in the spring. For cuttings, take semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer and root them in a moist, well-draining medium.Pruning
Prune Malva olbia in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or damaged branches and shape the plant to encourage a bushier growth habit. Regular pruning helps maintain the plant's health and appearance.Toxicity
Malva olbia is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, it is always advisable to keep plants out of reach of pets and children to prevent any accidental ingestion.Additional
Malva olbia is relatively easy to care for but requires regular maintenance to keep it looking its best. It is a great addition to gardens in subtropical climates and can attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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