SPHAERALCEA AMBIGUA

Globe Mallow

OVERVIEW:

Sphaeralcea ambigua is a native Southwestern perennial recognized for its soft, gray-green foliage and abundant cup-shaped flowers. Depending on selection, blooms range from orange to salmon and pink. Globe Mallow is exceptionally well suited to desert conditions and provides valuable color and habitat for native pollinators.

CLASSIFICATION:

Scientific Name: Sphaeralcea ambigua
Common Name: Desert Globe Mallow
Family: Malvaceae
Suggested Uses: Native gardens, xeriscape landscapes, pollinator gardens, mass planting

CHARACTERISTICS:

Height: 2–4 ft.
Width: 2–4 ft.
Foliage: Gray-green, lobed leaves
Flower: Cup-shaped orange, salmon or pink flowers
Bloom Period: Spring through fall
Growth Habit: Upright, branching perennial

ENVIRONMENT:

Exposure: Full Sun
Water Use: Low
Soil: Well-draining, rocky soils
USDA Zone: 4–10