Zebra Mallow
Malva zebrina
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
48 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Short-lived perennial
Native To
Western Europe, North Africa, Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
An upright, bushy, short-lived perennial or biennial, often grown as an annual. Features showy, 5-petaled, hollyhock-like flowers that are lilac-purple with striking, dark purple stripes. Blooms profusely from summer to frost. Distinguished by its profuse, long-lasting bloom of pale lavender to pinkish-purple flowers, each dramatically veined with deep maroon or purple stripes, resembling a pinwheel.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings lightly to maintain moisture during root development.
- Ensure consistent watering during the growing season for healthy growth.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer to promote lush foliage.
- Prune after flowering to encourage bushy growth and remove dead stems.
- Divide clumps every 2-3 years in early spring to rejuvenate plants.
Pro Tip
Plant in full sun for vibrant blooms and strong growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
- Prune to shape and remove faded flowers
- Use organic compost to enrich soil
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t neglect pruning after flowering
- Refrain from planting in shady areas for best blooms
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Zebra Mallow questions
What zones can Zebra Mallow grow in?
Zebra Mallow is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Zebra Mallow deer resistant?
Yes — Zebra Mallow is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Zebra Mallow bloom?
Zebra Mallow typically blooms in summer to fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Zebra Mallow need full sun?
Zebra Mallow does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Zebra Mallow drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Zebra Mallow handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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Grow Zebra Mallow with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
