Common Mallow, High Mallow, Cheeses
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Tracheophyta, Class: Magnoliopsida, Order: Malvales, Family: Malvaceae, Genus: Malva, Species: Malva sylvestris · Malvaceae (Mallow family) · Simple, deciduous; basal and cauline
Species
Malva sylvestris (Confidence: High)
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous; basal and cauline
Family
Malvaceae (Mallow family)
Shape
Orbicular to reniform (kidney-shaped) with 5-7 shallow, rounded lobes
Size
Approximately 1.5 to 3 inches in diameter; small for the species due to being a pressed upper-stem specimen
Margin
Crenate-serrate (rounded teeth along the edges)
Arrangement
Alternate along the stem on long petioles
Rarity
Very Common; considered a roadside weed in many temperate regions
Color & Pattern
Overall dark green, currently appearing brownish-green due to the drying/pressing process; features prominent dark purple-veined flowers
Venation Pattern
Palmate venation with five to seven primary veins radiating from the base
Texture & Surface
Upper surface is slightly hairy (pubescent) to glabrous; lower surface typically more hairy; texture is soft and papery when dried
Description
An upright or sprawling herbaceous perennial or biennial with attractive rose-purple flowers and circular, lobed leaves. The plant can reach 1 meter in height and is known for its mucilaginous properties and disc-shaped fruit segments.
Key Features
Distinctive purple flowers with darker stripes (nectar guides) and circular, palmately-lobed leaves with long stalks
Habitat
Found in meadows, roadsides, waste ground, and coastal areas; thrives in nitrogen-rich soils and full sun exposure
Geographic Range
Native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia; widely naturalized in North America and Australia
Condition Notes
The specimen is a pressed herbarium sample. The leaves are desiccated and slightly curled, and the flowers have darkened to a deep indigo-purple. Condition: Good (as a botanical record)
Interesting Facts
The fruit is circular and resembles a wheel of cheese, giving it the folk name 'Cheeses'. It was traditionally used as a source of dye and the leaves can be used as a vegetable substitute.
Medicinal & Uses
Used traditionally for respiratory ailments and skin inflammation due to high mucilage content. Edible leaves and flowers are used in salads; timber value is nil; highly valued in ornamental 'wild' gardens.
Ecological Role
Important nectar source for bees and butterflies; larval host for several Lepidoptera species including the Painted Lady butterfly.
Similar Species
Geranium species (different flower structure), Malva neglecta (smaller, paler flowers and more prostrate habit)
Foraging Tips
Look for the distinctive 'cheese' fruits in late summer. Use young leaves in spring for the best flavor; avoid picking from roadsides where pollution or runoff may be high.
Toxicity Warning
Non-toxic to humans; generally safe, though it can accumulate nitrates from the soil if grown in overly fertilized areas.