Origin and Common Names
Malvastrum coccineum, commonly known as Scarlet mallow or Scarlet false mallow, is a perennial plant native to North America. It can be found growing in various regions from Florida to California and as far north as Kansas and South Dakota.
Uses
Although not widely known for its medicinal properties, some indigenous tribes have used the plant to treat a variety of ailments. For example, the Navajo have used Scarlet mallow's roots as a diuretic, while the Cherokee and Zuni have used the plant to alleviate sore throats. In addition to its medicinal uses, Scarlet mallow has been used by some Native American tribes as a dye source for textiles.
Scarlet mallow is also known for its ornamental value. Its bright red flowers are eye-catching and can add a pop of color to gardens and landscapes. Furthermore, it is drought-resistant and can thrive in hot and dry conditions, making it a popular choice for xeriscaping.
General Appearance
The Scarlet mallow plant can grow up to three feet in height and has a spread of about two feet. Its leaves are generally green, slightly fuzzy to the touch, and have a heart shape. The flowers are typically three to four inches in diameter and are bright red with yellow centers. They bloom from late spring through early fall and attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Scarlet mallow has a deep taproot and can survive in poor soil conditions such as compacted clay or sandy soil.
Growth Conditions of Malvastrum Coccineum
Malvastrum coccineum is a flowering plant native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It is commonly known as Scarlet false mallow or Indian Mallow. When it comes to growing this plant successfully, there are a few key factors to consider.
Light
Malvastrum coccineum requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. In general, it thrives in bright sunlight, but it can tolerate some shade during the hottest times of the day. However, if it doesn't get enough light, it may start to grow tall and lanky in search of more sunlight.
Temperature
Malvastrum coccineum is well-suited to warm climates and thrives in temperatures between 70-90°F during the day and 50-70°F at night. In very hot weather, it may need to be watered more frequently to prevent it from drying out. Frost is not tolerated by this plant, so it should not be grown in areas where winter temperatures regularly drop below 32°F.
Soil
Malvastrum coccineum prefers well-draining soils that are moist but not waterlogged. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy or loamy soils, but it does not do well in heavy clay soils. To improve drainage, it's a good idea to mix some sand or perlite into the soil before planting. Additionally, this plant prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH range between 6.0 and 7.0. Adding organic matter to the soil can help to keep the pH level in this range.
By providing the right growing conditions, you can help ensure that Malvastrum coccineum thrives in your garden or landscape. With bright light, warm temperatures, and well-draining soil, this plant can put on a beautiful display of scarlet blossoms throughout much of the year.
Cultivation
Malvastrum coccineum, commonly known as Scarlet False Mallow, can be grown in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It needs plenty of sunlight and can be planted in either full sun or partial shade. The best time to plant scarlet false mallow is in the fall or early spring.
Watering Needs
Malvastrum coccineum prefers moist soil but can tolerate short periods of drought. It is essential to monitor the soil regularly and water the plant when the top 1-2 inches of soil become dry. However, it is crucial to avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot and other diseases.
Fertilization
Scarlet False Mallow will benefit from regular fertilization, preferably with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Fertilizer should be applied in the spring when the plant begins to show new growth and again in mid-summer. However, it is crucial to avoid over-fertilization, as this can cause excessive vegetative growth, which can weaken the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Malvastrum coccineum. However, frequent deadheading of spent blooms can encourage further blooming and keep the plant looking neat and tidy. If the plant becomes leggy or unwieldy, it can be pruned back by up to one-third of its height in the early spring.
Propagation of Malvastrum coccineum (Nutt.) Gray
Malvastrum coccineum (Nutt.) Gray, also known as scarlet falsemallow, is a perennial herb that can be propagated by several methods:
Seed Propagation
The easiest method of propagation of Malvastrum coccineum is by seed. Collect mature seeds during the autumn and store them in a cool, dry place until spring. Seeds may require stratification by refrigerating them for 2-4 weeks to break their dormancy. Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mixture in early spring, covering them lightly with soil. Keep the soil moist and warm, and the seeds should germinate within 2 to 4 weeks.
Cuttings
Malvastrum coccineum can also be propagated through stem cuttings that are dipped in a rooting hormone and then planted in a well-draining soil mixture. Prepare the cuttings in the early spring, selecting healthy and vigorous stems. Remove the bottom leaves and dip the cut end into rooting hormone before planting in a moist substrate. Cover the newly planted cuttings with a plastic covering to raise humidity levels around the cutting and to prevent moisture loss. Rooting should occur in four to six weeks when the cutting will be ready to transplant.
Division
Another propagation method for Malvastrum coccineum is by division, which is best carried out in spring. Divide mature plants by gently separating the root system from the soil with a garden fork. Then, divide the plant into several sections, each with its roots and shoots. Transplant the divided sections into individual containers and maintain moist growing conditions until the plants have established themselves in their new containers. Transplant the new plants once the roots are sufficiently established.
Conclusion
Regularly propagate Malvastrum coccineum to help control their size and shape, obtain more plants and promote faster growth. Try out the propagation method that suits you best and follow the planting instruction for the healthiest results.
Disease Management
Malvastrum coccineum (Nutt.) Gray is generally a hardy plant with few disease issues. However, it may occasionally be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, which appears as a white powder on the leaves. To manage powdery mildew, remove and dispose of any infected plant parts and improve air circulation around the plant. Avoid overhead watering or wetting the leaves and consider applying a fungicide if the issue persists.
Malvastrum coccineum (Nutt.) Gray may also be susceptible to verticillium wilt, which turns leaves yellow and causes wilting. Affected plants should be removed and destroyed immediately to prevent the disease from spreading to healthy plants. It is also recommended to avoid planting new plants in the same location to prevent infection.
Pest Management
One of the most common pests that may affect Malvastrum coccineum (Nutt.) Gray is spider mites. These tiny pests cause yellow speckling on leaves and can cause significant damage if left unchecked. To manage spider mites, spray the plant thoroughly with water to remove the pests and improve humidity levels around the plant. Consider applying an insecticidal soap or oil if the issue persists.
Aphids may also be a common pest on Malvastrum coccineum (Nutt.) Gray. These small, soft-bodied insects suck sap from the plant and excrete a sticky substance called honeydew that can attract ants and other pests. To manage aphids, use a strong stream of water to blast them off the plant and consider applying a neem oil or insecticidal soap if the issue persists.
Caterpillars may occasionally feed on the foliage of Malvastrum coccineum (Nutt.) Gray. To manage caterpillars, remove them by hand or apply a biological control such as Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt).
