Malvastrum lateritium
Malvastrum lateritium
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Pl. 98B2 — Malvastrum lateritium
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IOverview
Overview
Malvastrum lateritium, known as malvastrum or lateritium, is a perennial forb/herb that thrives in the warm climates of Argentina Northeast, Brazil South, Paraguay, and Uruguay, with naturalized populations extending to Alabama, Bahamas, and Belize. This plant prefers full to partial sun and grows best in moist soil types ranging from light (sandy) to heavy (clay). Standing at about 0.7 meters tall, it is adaptable to various soil conditions and hardiness zones 7-10. Malvastrum lateritium is both edible and ornamental, with its flowers and leaves being the parts used for culinary purposes. Its light requirements and moisture preferences make it a versatile addition to gardens in suitable climates.
Quick answers
What is Malvastrum lateritium?
Malvastrum lateritium, known as malvastrum or lateritium, is a perennial forb/herb that thrives in the warm climates of Argentina Northeast, Brazil South, Paraguay, and Uruguay, with naturalized populations extending to Alabama, Bahamas, and Belize.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Malvastrum lateritium thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This perennial plant is hardy in zones 7-10 and grows up to 0.7 meters tall. It can tolerate both forb/herb and subshrub habits. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist while providing ample sunlight. Harvest its edible parts—flowers and leaves—for use in culinary applications.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
7-10
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb, Subshrub
Mature size
0.7 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Malvastrum lateritium for the first time
8steps
Start with Malvastrum lateritium as a simple, low-maintenance perennial for your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or small plants, a trowel, and a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost, or in fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with light to partial sun. Ensure soil is well-draining, either in the ground or a pot with drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 0.5 inches deep, or plant small plants at 1 foot intervals. Water thoroughly after planting.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil consistently moist and water regularly to help establish the plant. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, especially during hot weather. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune back after flowering to encourage new growth and prevent self-seeding. Harvest leaves and flowers for culinary use as needed.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, neglecting to prune, and not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersLeaves
Edible uses: The flowers and leaves of Malvastrum lateritium are edible. They can be consumed fresh or used in various preparations such as salads or cooked dishes. The plant thrives in full to partial sun and moist soil, making it suitable for gardens with similar conditions.
Other uses:Ground cover
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 30 native
Americas15 regions
native (15)BahamasBelizeBoliviaColombiaCosta RicaCubaDominican RepublicEl SalvadorFrench GuianaGuyanaHaitiHondurasJamaicaParaguayUruguay
Broader regions
native:Brazil South, Cayman Is., Chile North, Desventurados Is., Florida, Leeward Is., Louisiana, Mexico Central, Mexico Gulf, Mexico Northeast, Mexico Northwest, Mexico Southeast, Mexico Southwest, Netherlands Antilles, Argentina Northeast
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 98b2660d-a81a-414f-b230-b4dcfb993e28
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