Marshmallow plant seeds
Marshmallow has been used for centuries due to their curative properties. Its Greek name is Altea which translates into "healing plant". The roots are used for tea, or dried and made into a powder. The powder can be used as a vegan flour and thickener. The blooms of the Marsh Mallow are small and resemble a hibiscus. The petals are white, and the center is a deep burgundy color.
When you read the ingredients on "Marshmallows" today, they are made of egg whites, high fructose corn syrup, and gelatin. Real Marshmallows used to be made with the sweet and earthy root of this plant.
Marsh Mallow is a perennial (related to the hibiscus) that can grow up to 4 feet. It is used for medicinal, culinary, and ornamental purposes. Marsh Mallow grows hardy in zones 3-10.
Seed count: 10
Botanic name:
Althaea officinalis
Plant spacing:
18-14 inches apart
Color:
White blooms with pink centers
Sowing depth:
1/4 inch
Sun requirements:
Full sun / part shade
Utilization:
This can be grown as a decorative ornamental, or harvested for it's roots for homemade marshmallows, teas, or ground into powder for various uses.
Frost hardy:
Yes
Maturity days:
First-year, foliage and branches will grow. In the second year, blossoms will be prevalent. By the third year, the roots will be big enough to harvest. The longer the marshmallow plant is allowed to grow, the bigger the roots will be.
Life cycle:
Perennial
Can I start indoors:
Yes
Container friendly:
Yes, but with limitations. These are perennials so the containers will need to be brought in to overwinter.
Other names:
Abelmosk, Ambrette, Muskdana, or Musk Okra
Hardiness zones:
3,4,5,6,7,8,9
Vine Habit:
