Angiosperms (Flowering Plants) • Earth.com

Common mallow

(Malva sylvestris)

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Description

Malva sylvestris, commonly known as Common Mallow, is a flowering plant species belonging to the Malvaceae family. It is a well-known and widely grown perennial plant, native to Europe and Asia. The plant is highly valued for its medicinal properties and ornamental value. In this article, we will delve into the details of Malva sylvestris, its history, cultivation, and uses. History and Etymology The genus Malva is derived from the Greek word 'malake', which means soft or soothing, referring to the mucilage content in the plant. The species name sylvestris is derived from the Latin word silva, meaning woodland or forest, indicating its natural habitat. The plant has a rich history and has been used for medicinal purposes since ancient times. The Greek physician Hippocrates prescribed Malva sylvestris for the treatment of respiratory problems and digestive disorders, while the Roman naturalist Pliny the Elder recommended it for the treatment of wounds and toothaches. Description Malva sylvestris is a herbaceous perennial plant that grows up to 1.5 meters in height. The plant has a deep taproot system and a basal rosette of leaves. The leaves are alternate, heart-shaped, and have serrated margins. The upper leaves are smaller than the lower leaves, and the stem is covered in fine hairs. The plant produces clusters of large, showy flowers, which are pink-purple in color, and bloom from May to September. The flowers are cup-shaped, about 5 cm in diameter, and have five petals. The fruit of the plant is a schizocarp, which splits into segments containing one to four seeds. Cultivation Malva sylvestris is an easy-to-grow plant that thrives in a range of soil types and conditions. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant but requires regular watering during dry periods. The plant can be propagated by seed, cuttings, or division. The seeds can be sown directly into the soil in the spring, or started indoors and transplanted outside after the last frost. The plant grows quickly and can become invasive in some areas. To control its growth, it is recommended to deadhead the spent flowers and cut back the plant after blooming. Uses Medicinal Uses Malva sylvestris has been used for its medicinal properties for centuries. The plant contains high levels of mucilage, which is a thick, gel-like substance that has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. The mucilage is found in the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant and is used to treat a variety of health conditions. The plant is commonly used to treat respiratory problems such as coughs, bronchitis, and sore throats. The mucilage in the plant helps to soothe the irritated mucous membranes in the respiratory tract, reducing inflammation and easing breathing. The plant is also used to treat digestive problems such as constipation, diarrhea, and indigestion. The mucilage in the plant helps to lubricate the digestive tract, promoting healthy bowel movements and reducing inflammation. The plant is also used topically to treat skin irritations such as burns, insect bites, and wounds. The mucilage in the plant helps to soothe the skin and reduce inflammation, promoting faster healing. Ornamental Uses Malva sylvestris is a popular garden plant valued for its attractive flowers and foliage. The plant is often used in cottage gardens, borders, and rock gardens. The plant attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to the garden. The flowers of the plant are also used in cut flower arrangements.

Taxonomic tree:

Domain:
Kingdom: Plantae
Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order:Malvales
Family:Malvaceae
Genus:Malva
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