tree mallow

tree mallowTree mallow (Lavatera arborea).

tree mallow, (Lavatera arborea), biennial, herbaceous plant, of the hibiscus, or mallow, family (Malvaceae), native to Europe. It grows 1.2–3 metres (4–10 feet) tall and bears downy, lobed leaves 10–25 cm (4–10 inches) long. Purplish-red flowers about 5 cm (2 inches) wide are borne in profuse, leafy clusters. The cultivated variety L. arborea variegata has white-mottled leaves.

This article was most recently revised and updated by William L. Hosch.
Citation Information
Article Title: tree mallow
Website Name: Encyclopaedia Britannica
Publisher: Encyclopaedia Britannica, Inc.
Date Published: 10 February 2023
Access Date: November 14, 2026