All About Dwarf Mallow (Malva neglecta)
Identification
Dwarf mallow (Malva neglecta), also known as common mallow or cheeseweed, is a low-growing perennial plant that belongs to the Malvaceae family. Here’s how you can identify it:
- Leaves: The leaves are rounded or kidney-shaped with 5-7 shallow lobes. They have a slightly wrinkled appearance and toothed edges.
- Flowers: The flowers are small, pale pink to white, with five petals. They bloom from spring to autumn.
- Stems: The stems are creeping or trailing, often forming a mat-like ground cover.
- Fruits: The fruits resemble small, round cheeses, hence the name “cheeseweed.”
Uses
Dwarf mallow has various uses:
- Culinary: The leaves, flowers, and immature seeds are edible. They can be used in salads, soups, or cooked as greens. They are rich in vitamins A and C.
- Medicinal: Traditionally, dwarf mallow has been used for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. It’s used to treat sore throats, coughs, and skin irritations.
Feeding to Chickens and Ducks
Dwarf mallow is safe for chickens and ducks to eat. It provides nutritional benefits, including vitamins and minerals, and can be a good forage option. Introduce it slowly to ensure there are no adverse reactions.
Safety Around Humans and Dogs
- Humans: Dwarf mallow is safe for human consumption. However, those with allergies to plants in the Malvaceae family should avoid it.
- Dogs: There is no evidence suggesting that dwarf mallow is toxic to dogs. It should be safe if consumed in small amounts, but it’s always best to consult with a vet if you’re concerned.
Pollinators Attracted
Dwarf mallow is known to attract various pollinators, including bees and butterflies. Its flowers provide nectar, making it a beneficial plant for supporting local pollinator populations.
Should You Keep It or Remove It?
Whether you should keep or remove dwarf mallow depends on your gardening goals:
- Keep It: If you appreciate its benefits as a forage plant, a pollinator attractor, and its medicinal properties, you might want to keep it.
- Remove It: If you find it invasive or if it competes with other plants in your garden, it may be best to control or remove it. It can be persistent and spread rapidly, so regular maintenance is necessary to prevent it from overtaking your garden.
Sources
- Missouri Botanical Garden – Malva neglecta
- Plants for a Future – Malva neglecta
- National Center for Biotechnology Information – Medicinal uses of Malva species
Dwarf mallow can be a useful plant in your garden, providing forage for animals, benefits for pollinators, and even some culinary and medicinal uses for humans. However, its potential invasiveness requires careful management.
