Desert Mallow*
Malacothamnus hallii
Care
full sun
very low
well-draining, sandy or gravelly soil
3–6ft tall , 3–6ft wide
May-Sep
Deciduous
Resistant
Friendly
Prized
Desert scrub and interior washes of the southern Sierra Nevada and Mojave Desert margins in Kern and Inyo Counties, 2000-4000 ft elevation
Care Guide
Planting
Plant Desert Mallow in full sun with well-draining, sandy or gravelly soil - drainage is critical for this desert native. Space plants 3-6 feet apart to accommodate their mature size of 3-6 feet tall. Plant in spring or fall when temperatures are moderate, and avoid heavy clay soils that retain moisture, as this plant thrives on very low water once established.
After Planting
Water weekly during your plant's first summer to establish deep roots, then gradually reduce watering as fall approaches. By year two, Desert Mallow should need water only during extreme heat or drought; it's adapted to thrive on rainfall alone in most Bay Area conditions. Prune lightly after flowering (which runs May through September) to maintain shape, and expect the plant to go dormant and lose its leaves in winter - this is normal. The biggest mistake people make is overwatering; treat this like the drought-tolerant desert plant it is, and it will reward you with years of trouble-free blooms.
Endangered & Threatened Species Supported
Endemic to California, habitat loss from urban development
Species of Special Concern in California
Brush rabbit is a Species of Special Concern
California Species of Special Concern
Wildlife Supported
Birds
Dense branches provide nesting and roosting cover
Nesting and territorial cover in coastal sage scrub habitat
Seeds consumed during autumn and winter months
Gleans insects from foliage year-round
Mammals
Dense branching structure provides nest site protection
Primary browse species for small mammals in coastal sage scrub
Browse during drought years when herbaceous layer limited
Seeds cached for winter food stores
Fall seed collection for winter caching