Lavatera, Tree lavatera

Lavatera thuringiaca

Physical Characteristics

Lavatera thuringiaca is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.8 m (6ft) by 1 m (3ft 3in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8 and is not frost tender. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Distribution

S.E. Europe to W. Asia - Armenia to Caucasia.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Leaves Edible Uses: Young leaves - raw or cooked. A mild flavour, but the leaves are tough and not very worthwhile[K]. Leaves of the cultivar 'Barnsley' are less tough and are reasonably tasty, a plant at Kew had also produced quite a few leaves in the winter and so it is a potential winter salad[K]. Flowers - raw. A pleasant mild flavour, they make a decorative addition to the salad bowl[K]. Many named cultivars have considerably larger flowers than the type species and are thus much more worthwhile for the salad bowl[K].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known