Malva verticillata, also known as the Chinese mallow or donghancai,   is an annual or biennial that grow up to 1.7 meters in high and can inhabit woodland areas of different soil types. In temperate climates, it flowers from July to September and the seeds from August to October. The flowers of the plant are self-fertile but can be also propagated by insects. easy to grow form seeds in the world.

MALVA VERTICILLATA . Robust tall growing annual or biennial with elegantly curled and crisped leaves. Leaves are prepared in many ways: boiled, fried, roasted, or even dried, served with soy sauce. It is one of the earliest domesticated plants of China. Like most of the mallows, it has soothing, anti-inflammatory and laxative properties. Useful for gastrointestinal problems, coughs and bronchitis.

A majestic easily raised perennial producing tall erect stems crammed with flowers of striking bi-color of pink with narrow violet stripes in its first year.  A perfect border plant with an old fashioned feel, thriving in most soils and flowering from June to September in sun or part shade.  120cm in height.

·         Sow from late winter to early spring in warmth, in a good seed compost, 1.5mm (1/16in) deep .

·         Compost should be kept moist,  but not wet.  Sealing in a polythene bag until after germination is beneficial  taking around  15-21 days at 21C (70F).

·         When large enough to handle transplant into 7.5cm (3in) pots and grow on in frost free cool conditions.

·         Plant out 40cm (18in) apart in sun and some shelter.