Musk Mallow ( Abelmoschus moschatus ) is cultivated for cosmetic, perfume, culinary and medicinal purposes. Although native to tropical areas, it will tolerate some frost and drought, which means it can be grown in temperate climates. The leaves and shoots are used as a vegetable, they can be cooked or used in soups. The edible unripe seed pods can be either fried or roasted.
Abelmoschus moschatus is classed as invasive in some areas of the world. However, its introduction into new areas is quite common, due to the demand for Ambrette Oil and its many uses.
Abelmoschus moschatus has many common names. Some of these include Native Rosella, Musk Okra, Tropical Jewel Hibiscus, Ornamental Okra, Rose Mallow, Ambrette and of course the most well-known Musk Mallow.
Growth
Musk Mallow is a quick growing shrub that can reach up to 1-2 metres tall. It has hibiscus type flowers that are generally light yellow with a burgundy center, although petals can also be pink or red. The flowers are short lived, lasting for only one day! This species is very generous and prolific with its flowering though; so, you won’t miss out. Flowers are in bloom from mid spring to mid-autumn.
Abelmoschus moschatus often grows as an annual or biennial but in its ideal climate, has also been noted as a perennial. Plants will die back in the dry season and then pop back up as the rainy season begins again.
The plant, especially its seeds have a musk like scent, hence the name. This plants leaves, shoots and tuberous roots are edible.
Note: Germination instructions can be found in the ‘Germination Instructions Tab’ below. Upon purchase you will receive these detailed instructions via email so that you have a permanent record.
FAMILY:
Malvaceae
CLIMATE:
Temperate, Sub Tropical, Tropical
TEMPERATURE RANGE:
5 to 40°C / 40 to 104°F
SOIL TYPE:
Moist, well-draining soil. May need extra watering depending on climate while it is still young.
LOCATION:
Full Sun
HEIGHT:
Up to 2 metres (6 feet)
WIDTH:
Up to 1.5 metres (5 feet)
pH:
5.5-7.8
GROWTH TYPE:
Annual, Biennial – has been known to be perennial. Flowering Bush/Shrub
WATER REQUIREMENTS:
Low-Medium
POLLINATION:
Pollinated by insects.
MATURITY:
3-6 months
GERMINATION RATES:
85%
GERMINATION TIME:
1-4 weeks, dependent on conditions
GERMINATION DIFFICULTY:
Fairly easy
SEEDS PER GRAM:
64
MEDICINAL QUALITIES:
Yes
WEED POTENTIAL:
Yes
EDIBLE:
Yes
SEED STORAGE & VIABILITY:
Cold Storage at 4°C (Fridge) up to 2 years
FACTS ABOUT ABELMOSCHUS MOSCATUS (Musk Mallow)
The roots, seeds and leaves are used in Asian medicines for a variety of illnesses including intestinal complaints, constipation, dyspepsia and gonorrhoea. The leaves of Musk Mallow can be used as a poultice to ease severe headaches.
The essential oil is used for the treatment of depression and anxiety. As an essential oil it can also be applied onto the skin to treat cramps, poor circulation and aching joints.
