Annual Mallow

rouge21 (Zone 4b) Jul 18, 2015

I quickly put on the brakes when I caught this blaze of pink out the corner of my eye and took a couple of pictures.

I was so impressed with what I saw (and not knowing what I was seeing) I knocked on the door to speak with the homeowner. She didn't know what it was but had some seeds that she wanted to share with me...just like any proud gardener!

Looking on-line I see it is Lavatera trimestris.

(I don't recall seeing such an annual for sale in the spring at nurseries...maybe I just didn't notice?)

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Pistil Lake Stevens, WA(Zone 8a) Jul 19, 2015

I grew L. trimestris years ago. It grew well in sandy soil in sun, and was easy. This looks like an improved version, mine had the flowers kind of hidden beneath the leaves, like happens with many Malvas.

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valal Natick, MA Jul 28, 2015

Wow, that is gorgeous!
I never heard of these annual mallows. Learn something new every day! :o)
THANK YOU for sharing your "find"

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brendak654 Anna, IL(Zone 6b) Aug 01, 2015

BEAUTIFUL BEAUTIFUL! Gee, if I was closer to your zone I would be begging for a seed or two.

Hope you can master the art of growing that baby. Good luck!

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1lisac Liberty Hill, TX(Zone 8a) Aug 01, 2015

Hey if Pistil can grow it in their zone maybe we can grow it in ours. Lol

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Loretta_NJ Pequannock, NJ(Zone 6b) Aug 01, 2015

I haven't grown lavatera in years but I always remember it being spindly so I had to look this one up. It looks like it could be Twins Hot Pink?
http://www.fleuroselect.com/awarded-varieties/twins-hot-pink
Several companies have the seed for sale.