Low mallow (Malva neglecta) is a common plant found globally in various environments, including gardens, lawns, and disturbed areas. Recognized by its distinctive leaves and small flowers, it is considered by some to be an unwanted weed, while others value its uses as food and traditional medicine.
Identifying Low Mallow
Low mallow typically grows low and spreads, though stems can reach up to 3 feet in open areas. Stems are often hairy, branching from the base to form dense mats.
Key identifiers are its dark green, orbicular to kidney-shaped leaves with 5 to 7 shallow, rounded lobes and a slightly crinkled appearance. These palmately veined leaves are often hairy and grow on long petioles.
Small flowers, typically white to pale pink or light purple with darker violet veins, emerge from leaf axils from late spring to early autumn. Each flower has five notched petals, measuring 3/4 to 1.5 inches across.
Below ground, low mallow anchors itself with a deep, woody taproot, which can make mature plants difficult to extract.
The plant produces distinctive flattened, round seed pods, often called “cheese wheels” or “buttons,” each containing 10 to 12 wedge-shaped segments. These pods lead to common names like cheeseweed, dwarf mallow, or roundleaf mallow.
Low Mallow as a Weed
Low mallow is often considered a problematic weed due to its robust growth and ability to thrive. It spreads vigorously, forming dense mats that compete with desired plants for water, nutrients, and sunlight.
It is a prolific seed producer, with thick-coated seeds that remain viable in the soil for many years. Though germination rates may be low, the sheer volume ensures continued propagation.
Low mallow thrives in various soil conditions, including dry, compacted soils, and tolerates drought. Its resilience to irregular mowing allows it to persist in lawns and cultivated areas, potentially reducing crop yields or affecting landscape aesthetics.
Managing Low Mallow
Effective low mallow control combines preventative and direct removal strategies. Maintaining a healthy, dense lawn or garden through proper cultural practices is foundational. Adequate mowing, consistent irrigation, and appropriate fertilization help desirable plants outcompete mallow seedlings. A 3-inch layer of organic mulch can also suppress seed germination by blocking sunlight.
For existing plants, manual removal is most effective when they are young, before flowering or seeding. Pulling plants by hand is feasible, but the entire taproot must be removed, which becomes increasingly woody and difficult as the plant matures. Watering the soil beforehand can ease removal.
For larger infestations, chemical control can be considered, though home-use options are limited. Post-emergent broadleaf herbicides with active ingredients like 2,4-D, dicamba, MCPP, or triclopyr are effective on young, actively growing mallow. Glyphosate is generally not highly effective unless used at high rates or with specific mixing partners. Always follow label instructions precisely and be aware of environmental conditions to ensure safe, effective application without harming desirable plants.
Beneficial Uses of Low Mallow
Beyond its weed reputation, low mallow offers several beneficial uses, especially in culinary and traditional medicine. All parts, including leaves, flowers, and young seed pods, are edible. Leaves have a mild flavor, suitable raw in salads or cooked like greens, and can thicken soups due to their mucilage. Young seed pods have a pleasant, nutty taste.
Nutritionally, low mallow is rich in vitamins A, B, C, and E, and minerals like calcium, magnesium, zinc, selenium, potassium, and iron. It also provides protein, fiber, and essential fatty acids.
Traditionally, the plant’s high mucilage content has been used for soothing properties. It has been employed in folk medicine for digestive issues like constipation, respiratory complaints such as coughs, and to soothe skin irritations.
Ecologically, low mallow can serve as an effective ground cover, aiding moisture conservation. It can also provide habitat for beneficial insects.