Sidalcea malviflora
| Sidalcea malviflora | |
| Light: |   |
| Moisture: |  |
| Hardiness: | 6 |
| Soil pH: | 5.6-8.4 |
| Height: | 3' |
| Open Woods Forest | |
| Native to: | |
| Edible Rating: |  |
| Tea: | Yes |
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Sidalcea malviflora (common name: checkerbloom)
Propagation: Seed - sow spring in a greenhouse. When the seedlings are large enough to handle, prick them out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer.
Division in the spring.
Cultivation: Prefers a deep fertile well-drained but moisture-retentive soil in full sun or with some shade at the hottest part of the day[1].
This species thrives in climates with a relatively cool summer and mild winters and tolerates temperatures down to about -15°c[1]. However, where prolonged cold temperatures are experienced without snow cover, it is best to mulch the plants well in winter with material such as bracken litter[1].
If the plants are cut back immediately after flowering they will usually produce a second flush of bloom in late summer[1]. The flowers last well when they are cut for indoor use[1].
There are many named varieties, selected for their ornamental value[1].
Range: South-western N. America - Oregon to Baja California.
Habitat: Grassy slopes and open forest glades[1].
Edibility: Leaves - raw or cooked. The leaves have a very mild flavour and a slightly mucilaginous texture, they make a very acceptable salad[K]. The leaves can be cooked as greens[2]. The dried mashed leaves have been used as a flavouring with black manzanita berries (Arctostaphyllos spp)[2].
Pollinators: Insects
Soil: Can grow in light, medium, and heavy soils.
Drainage: Prefers well drained soil.
Flower Type: Hermaphrodite
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