The Marshmallow Plant ( Althaea officinalis ) is a perennial medicinal herb as has been used for thousands of years for medicinal purposes. The Genus name comes from the Greek word ‘althein’ which means ‘to heal’. Aside from its many healing properties, Marshmallow leaves, flowers and even its seeds are edible. However, it is the roots of the plant that are most prized and among many other medicinal uses, they make a popular herbal tea.
Althaea officinalis has been used to treat respiratory, skin, and digestive conditions and is also used as an essential oil. It is native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia.
Growth
Marshmallow can grow up 1.2 metres tall and has minimal branching. The leaves are soft and hairy, 3-5 lobed and approximately 5-7 cm’s long by 4 cm’s wide. The flower has 5 petals, is white with a purple-coloured centre and are similar looking to a hibiscus flower, with whom they share the same family. The plants start to die off as winter comes closer but will re-sprout in spring once the weather warms again.
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:
Cold, Temperate, Sub Tropical, Tropical
TEMPERATURE RANGE:
-25 to 35°C / -13 to 95°F
SOIL TYPE:
Moist and well-draining.
LOCATION:
Full Sun
HEIGHT:
Up to 1.2 metre (4 feet)
WIDTH:
Up to 0.8 metre (2.5 feet)
pH:
6.0-7.5
GROWTH TYPE:
Perennial, Herbaceous
WATER REQUIREMENTS:
Light – Medium.
POLLINATION:
Pollinated by bees, self-fertile. Bisexual – both male and female parts on the same flower.
MATURITY:
120 days to flowering, 2 years for root harvesting.
GERMINATION RATES:
52-64% – rates will improve with cold stratification.
GERMINATION TIME:
4-6 weeks of cold stratification, average germination begins 2-3 weeks post sowing.
GERMINATION DIFFICULTY:
Medium
SEEDS PER GRAM:
Approximately 420
MEDICINAL QUALITIES:
Yes
WEED POTENTIAL:
Not known
EDIBLE:
Yes
SEED STORAGE & VIABILITY:
Cold Storage at 4°C (Fridge) up to 3 years.
FACTS ABOUT ALTHAEA OFFICINALIS (Marshmallow Plant)
Marshmallow can grow in almost any conditions. It naturally occurs in marshy areas where the soil is damp but also in arid regions. While it copes with temperatures well below zero, it also grows well in tropical areas.
Among many more popular uses, Althaea officinalis roots can be boiled to a thick syrup which can be used as glue. The roots can also be given to teething children to chew on to ease the pain of sore gums.
Well known skin care brands use Marshmallow root extracts in their creams and tonics for their ability to soothe, hydrate and soften the skin.
