Sidalcea malviflora 'Purpetta'
perennialN. America Native

'Purpetta' Checker Mallow

Sidalcea malviflora 'Purpetta'

The Story

Plant Bio

Sidalcea malviflora 'Purpetta' is a perennial flowering plant known for its sturdy stems and attractive purple flowers that resemble hollyhocks.

Unique for its compact growth habit and vibrant purple blooms, making it an ideal choice for smaller gardens or borders.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesAdds soft pink blooms and lush foliage to perennial borders, attracting butterflies and hummingbirds.
Practical UsesDrought-tolerant once established, requiring minimal watering.
Ecological BenefitsSupports native pollinators and beneficial insects in the garden ecosystem.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate once established

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Western North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Early summer – Late summer

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F
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J
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In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage root growth.
  3. Plant in well-drained soil with full sun for optimal growth.
  4. Water consistently during dry periods to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
  5. Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
  6. Divide mature plants in early spring or fall to promote healthy growth.

Pro Tip

Use organic compost to enrich soil and improve moisture retention for lush foliage.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water deeply once a week during dry spells 🌱
  • Prune after flowering to promote bushier growth
  • Mulch around the base to conserve moisture

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
  • Don’t fertilize with high nitrogen in late summer
  • Steer clear of heavy shade which reduces flowering

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Divide
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Airy perennial borderFragrant garden bedWildflower meadow accent

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

'Purpetta' Checker Mallow questions

What zones can 'Purpetta' Checker Mallow grow in?

'Purpetta' Checker Mallow is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is 'Purpetta' Checker Mallow deer resistant?

Yes — 'Purpetta' Checker Mallow is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does 'Purpetta' Checker Mallow bloom?

'Purpetta' Checker Mallow typically blooms in early summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does 'Purpetta' Checker Mallow need full sun?

'Purpetta' Checker Mallow does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Keep exploring

Grow 'Purpetta' Checker 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.