Growing Lavatera Silvestris

Lavatera silvestris (Lavatera cretica var. silvestris), also called Cornish mallow, is an annual wildflower that produces slender stalks up to 2 feet tall. Each stalk is lined with pale lavender-and-white striped blooms shaped like those of a hollyhock. The plants flower from early summer until the first fall frost and readily self-seed if fruits are left in place. Sow Lavatera silvestris seeds in a sunny or partially shaded location after temperatures cool in fall or during early spring. Choose a location with good soil drainage to minimize the threat of fungal disease.

Garden fork
3-12-6 fertilizer
Pruning shears

Instructions

- 1
  Cultivate the soil with a garden fork until it is loose to a depth of approximately 6 inches. Remove large rocks and root clumps as you dig.
- 2
  Sow the seeds liberally and cover them with a layer of soil 1/8th inch deep.
- 3
  Add just enough water to dampen the site. Lavatera silvestris seedlings will emerge within 15 to 20 days.
- 4
  Continue to water as often as needed to keep the top inch of garden soil lightly moist.
- 5
  Thin the seedlings when they are 3 to 4 inches tall. Allow a space of 6 to 8 inches between each plant.
- 6
  Apply 3-12-6 fertilizer each month during the growing season, at the rate and in the manner indicated on package instructions.
- 7
  Snip off the flowers as they die to extend the bloom cycle, unless you plan to harvest the seeds or would like the plants to reseed themselves.
- 8
  Prune away dead or damaged leaves when they are noticed to preserve the appearance of the plants.

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