Marshmallow

Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis)

Marshmallow is a tall, moisture-loving perennial with soft pink flowers that provide beauty and ecological value to wetlands and garden spaces. Native to marshy areas, this plant supports a variety of pollinators, improves soil in waterlogged environments, and offers well-known traditional medicinal benefits. Whether used for its ability to attract wildlife or its herbal healing properties, Marshmallow is an excellent choice for rain gardens, pond edges, or naturalized landscapes needing water management and biodiversity.

Key Characteristics:

• Attracts Pollinators and Supports Beneficial Insects
  Marshmallow blooms from July to September, producing nectar-rich flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and hoverflies. These pollinators are essential for maintaining healthy ecosystems, ensuring cross-pollination of other plants in your garden, and boosting biodiversity.

• Supports Amphibians and Other Wildlife
  In wetland environments, Marshmallow’s dense foliage offers shelter for small amphibians, such as frogs and salamanders, as well as insects like dragonflies. These species thrive in moisture-rich habitats, where Marshmallow helps create an essential environment for wildlife to flourish.

• Improves Soil in Wet, Waterlogged Areas
  This plant is ideal for wetland gardens, rain gardens, and areas with poor drainage. Its deep root system helps stabilize soil, reduces erosion, and improves water infiltration, making it perfect for spaces needing water management and ecological restoration.

• Traditional Medicinal Uses for Inflammation and Cough Relief
  The roots, leaves, and flowers of Marshmallow have been used for centuries to treat inflammation, sore throats, and respiratory issues. The root is especially prized for its mucilaginous properties, which soothe irritated tissues, making it a popular ingredient in herbal teas and syrups for coughs and digestive discomfort.

• Perfect for Wetland Restoration and Rain Gardens
  Marshmallow thrives in moist to wet soils, making it an ideal addition to naturalized landscapes, rain gardens, or along the edges of ponds and streams. Its ecological role in supporting pollinators and wildlife, combined with its soil-stabilizing abilities, makes it a great choice for spaces focused on biodiversity and sustainability.

Product Details:

• Native range: Europe, Western Asia, and Northern Africa
• Life cycle: Perennial
• Sun requirements: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil requirements: Moist to wet, well-drained soils
• Mature height: 4-6 feet
• Bloom time: July to September
• Bloom color: Soft pink
• USDA Hardiness zones: 4-9

Marshmallow is a valuable plant for wet areas, supporting pollinators, providing wildlife habitat, and offering medicinal uses. Perfect for rain gardens, ponds, and moist landscapes.