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Information by: The Plant Nerd Inc.        Photographer:

Description

This large, shrubby perennial grows up to 8' and has profuse lavender pink flowers with maroon highlights. From the Mallow family, the flowers are produced year round and are especially showy in the fall.

Maintenance Tips

Lavatera maritima is a tall, woody shrub that is commonly called Tree Mallow. The plant can grow up to 8' tall and about 4-6' wide. This is a very low-maintenance plant if it is given the space to reach its full mature size. It is very attractive to hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees and rarely has any pest problems. It is very fast growing and will send out large hibiscus-shaped flowers throughout the summer. If it is planted in a sunny, well-drained location and the winter is dry and mild, this shrub can continue to bloom throughout the year. It is susceptible to root rot or other fungal diseases, which are often the result of overwatering during the hottest months of the year. This plant will do best with very little water once established. If it requires pruning to improve the shape, stick to the thinning method - pruning back the tallest branches to the center and allowing sunlight to reach the interior of the plant.