Lavatera Arborea Seeds (Tree Mallow)

A standout for coastal and cottage gardens, Lavatera arborea is prized for its tall, shrub-like stature and large, hibiscus-like flowers. This fast-growing biennial produces a profusion of deep pink-purple flowers with darker veins that provide a splash of brilliant colour all summer.

Dramatic Flowers for Coastal Gardens

This is a must-have for adding architectural height to the back of a border. The strong, woody stems are covered in large, velvety, grey-green leaves. A native of the UK coastline, its great secret is its incredible tolerance for salt spray and strong winds, making it one of the best plants for an exposed garden.

A Fast-Growing Biennial for Pollinators

A reliable and vigorous plant that often flowers in its first year from seed. This plant, also known as Sea Mallow, is a magnet for bees and butterflies. It is a short-lived perennial or biennial that will often self-seed, creating a beautiful, naturalistic display year after year.

How to Grow Lavatera Arborea (Tree Mallow)

We recommend sowing in Spring (March-May) or Autumn (August-October). Sow seeds into trays or pots of moist, gritty compost. Cover very lightly with compost or vermiculite. Germination can be slow and erratic, so be patient. Keep at 15-20°C. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle, acclimatise, and plant out after all risk of frost has passed.

This is the tall, shrubby cousin of our Malva moschata 'Alba' seeds. Explore our full Cottage Garden Seeds or see our Plants for Pollinators range.

Plant Details & Specifications

RHS Plants for Pollinators The RHS Plants for Pollinators mark is only given to plants that support pollinating insects.