Mallow 'Zebrina'

70 Seeds

Mallow 'Zebrina' is a beautiful flowering perennial or short-lived perennial that produces charming pink-purple flowers with dark violet stripes. It is a hardy, low-maintenance plant suitable for borders, cottage gardens, containers, and pollinator gardens. In the Gulf region, it grows best during the cooler months and mild spring season.

Best Planting Time

• September to January (recommended)
• Can also be sown in February in cooler Gulf areas.
• Avoid sowing during the extreme summer heat.

Seed Preparation

• Mallow seeds have a hard outer coat and benefit from preparation.
• Optional: Soak seeds in lukewarm water for 12–24 hours before sowing.
• Lightly scratch the seed surface (scarification) if germination is slow.

Soil Preparation

Mallow prefers fertile, well-drained soil but tolerates average garden soil.

Recommended mix:

• 40% Sandy garden soil
• 30% Compost
• 20% Coco peat
• 10% Perlite

Ideal soil pH:

• 6.0–7.5

Sowing Method

• Sow seeds directly outdoors or in seed trays.
• Plant seeds 0.5–1 cm deep.
• Cover lightly with fine soil.
• Keep soil slightly moist until germination.
• Transplant seedlings when they have 3–4 true leaves.

Temperature & Light

• Ideal germination temperature: 18–22°C
• Ideal growing temperature: 15–30°C
• Requires 6–8 hours of sunlight daily.
• Full sun encourages stronger stems and more flowers.
• In hot Gulf spring weather, light afternoon shade can extend flowering.

Watering

• Keep soil evenly moist during germination.
• Once established, water when the top 3–5 cm of soil becomes dry.
• Mallow is moderately drought tolerant once established.
• Avoid excessive watering.

Germination Time

• 10–21 days

Plant Spacing

• 30–45 cm between plants.
• 45–60 cm between rows.

Flowering

• Flowers appear approximately 10–14 weeks after sowing.
• Remove faded flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming.
• Allow some flowers to mature if you want natural reseeding.

Fertilization

• Add compost before planting.
• Feed lightly every 4–6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
• Avoid excessive nitrogen, which produces more leaves and fewer flowers.

Gulf Climate Tips

• Grow during the cooler season.
• Plant in a location with good morning sunlight.
• Use mulch to keep roots cool and reduce moisture loss.
• Ensure good air circulation.
• Monitor for aphids, spider mites, rust disease, powdery mildew, and leaf spot.
• 'Zebrina' performs beautifully in flower borders, containers, balconies, pathways, and natural-style gardens throughout the Gulf.