Althaea officinalis (Marshmallow) 9 cm Pot

Growth habit & appearance: Althaea officinalis forms an upright, statuesque clump reaching around 150 cm, characterised by soft, felted grey-green leaves that give the plant a gentle, downy texture. The stems are sturdy and lightly branched, carrying delicate pale pink, five-petalled flowers from mid-summer onwards. These nectar-bearing blooms attract bees and hoverflies, adding subtle yet persistent colour to the plant’s tall, graceful form. The combination of velvety foliage and soft pastel flowers makes marshmallow instantly recognisable among medicinal perennials.

Growing conditions: Fully hardy in the Irish climate, marshmallow thrives in full sun to light shade and prefers deep, moisture-retentive soil enriched with organic matter. As a European wetland and riverside species, it performs exceptionally well in Ireland’s cool summers and regular rainfall, often growing larger and lusher in damp, sheltered spots. Supplied in a 9 cm pot, it should be planted out in fertile ground and given space to reach its full height and spread over the following seasons.

Traditional & herbal uses: Marshmallow root and leaf have a long tradition of use for soothing dry coughs, digestive irritation and inflamed mucous membranes. The leaves were historically infused for urinary tract discomfort, while the roots—rich in mucilage—were used for lower digestive complaints including gastritis and IBS-related irritation. The plant remains one of the classic demulcent species in European herbal tradition.

Maintenance & harvesting: Water regularly during dry periods to maintain the moist conditions the plant prefers. Cut back old stems in late autumn or early spring as new growth begins. Leaves can be harvested through summer as needed, selecting young, clean foliage for the best quality. Roots should only be harvested from plants over three years old, ideally in autumn when the mucilage content is highest. Every few years, divide mature clumps to maintain vigour and prevent overcrowding, replanting divisions into rich, well-prepared soil.