Common Mallow – Malva sylvestris
Flowers and Fruits
![mallow flower 2](https://www.woodlands.co.uk/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/mallow-flower-2.jpg)
Flowers are present June to september. They are carried on stalks and the petals have a purple / pink colour with distinctive darker veins.
There are five 'notched' petals and underneath these are five largish sepals. The fruit (if formed) is a ring of nutlets - shaped a bit like a doughnut.
Leaves and stem
![mallow leaf](https://www.woodlands.co.uk/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/mallow-leaf.jpg)
The leaves on the stem have between 5 or 7 lobes, / divisions whereas those close to the ground are more rounded (or have shallow lobes).
![mallow hairs](https://www.woodlands.co.uk/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/mallow-hairs.jpg)
The plant can be quite 'hairy' as seen on these flower buds.
Ecology and other notes
![mallow plant](https://www.woodlands.co.uk/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/mallow-plant.jpg)
The common mallow or Malva sylvestris is a perennial.
It can grow to a height of 90 cm (circa 3 feet).
It is to be found on well drained soil - in sheltered places.