Tree mallow (lavatera)

Malva arborea, M. trimestris

flower

Large, soft pink flowers, raw in salads or as decoration; the young leaves are cooked like mallow.

Origin

Mediterranean

Where to find it

In gardens and by the sea, where tree mallow grows on the cliffs and islands of Brittany and the Scilly Isles; garden centers sell the plants.

Season (United States)

June to September

Preparation

The flowers are pulled from their green base and eaten raw; the young leaves are cooked for a few minutes.

Molecules

In small amounts, not counted Mucilages · Anthocyanins

Did you know?

It is a cousin of mallow and marshmallow: its flowers have the same slightly sticky softness.