Organic curly mallow ( Malva verticillata ) from the seed company Gaia, an edible and medicinal plant with multiple benefits
A hardy leafy plant that can grow up to 1.5 m in height , curly mallow is appreciated for both its culinary and medicinal uses . Its tender, mucilaginous leaves are excellent raw in salads when young. When mature, they are ideal for thickening soups, stews and sauces . Its small white flowers appear in late summer, adding a delicate touch to the garden.
Used for centuries in herbal medicine , this plant is known for its softening and digestive properties . It helps calm intestinal inflammation, relieve coughs and moisturize the skin . Easy to grow , it adapts well to forest gardens and diversified vegetable gardens .
Did you know?
Curly mallow contains mucilages , natural substances with soothing properties. In the past, it was consumed to treat throat irritations and digestive disorders . Even today, it is used in the form of an infusion or poultice for its emollient effects .
Spread: Upright and branched habit
Plant height: 120-150 cm
Quantity per pack: ± 200 seeds
Companion plants: Promotes biodiversity and attracts pollinators
Enemy plants: None
Cultivation method
Curly mallow is a hardy and undemanding plant. It grows well in a variety of soil types , as long as they are fertile and well-drained . It prefers a sunny to partially shaded location and tolerates cool temperatures well.
Direct sowing in open ground can be done from the beginning of spring , after the last frosts, or at the end of summer for germination the following spring. Sowing under glass is also possible 6 to 8 weeks before outdoor planting . Stratifying the seeds for 1 to 3 days can improve germination.
Watering should be moderate , taking care to keep the soil slightly moist without excess water. Once well established, the plant tolerates slight drought . Thinning is recommended to promote good growth and avoid competition between plants.
Harvest and use
The leaves can be harvested as soon as they reach 10-15 cm in height . It is advisable to pick the young shoots regularly to prolong production. The flowers are also edible and can be used in culinary decoration or in infusion .
For optimal conservation , the leaves can be dried in the open air in a shaded and well-ventilated place. Once completely dry , they can be kept for several months in an airtight jar .
With its culinary versatility , medicinal benefits , and ease of growing , curly mallow is a great addition to any eco-friendly, nourishing garden .
