How much sun does Alkali-mallow need?

Alkali-mallow grows best in full sun conditions.

When does Alkali-mallow bloom?

Alkali-mallow blooms in May, June, July, August, and September.

Where is Alkali-mallow native?

Alkali-mallow (Malvella leprosa) is native to AZ, CA, ID, KS and 7 more states, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).

What pollinators does Alkali-mallow attract?

Alkali-mallow draws bees and beetles.

Is Alkali-mallow HOA-friendly?

Alkali-mallow takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Alkali-mallow

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Malvella leprosa

Last reviewed: August 2026

Toxicity unknown

Alkali-mallow (Malvella leprosa) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

6"–24" H × 6"–18" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AZ, CA, ID, KS and 7 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Before you buy

Your city may pay you to plant this

Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 445 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.

Find rebates in your area

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Central California Foothills and Coastal Mountains Central California Valley Southern California Mountains North American Deserts Central Basin and Range Mojave Basin and Range Arizona/New Mexico Mountains Chihuahuan Deserts High Plains Southwestern Tablelands Sonoran Basin and Range Southern California/Northern Baja Coast

Alkali-mallow is a low-growing native perennial with small, rounded leaves and delicate pink or white flowers that bloom from late spring through early fall. This drought-tolerant plant forms a compact mound and thrives in alkaline soils where many other plants struggle. It's well-suited for water-wise landscapes and can handle harsh conditions including salt exposure.

In an HOA neighborhood

Alkali-mallow takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

Small flowers and leaves may appear weedy to traditional gardeners
Low growth habit lacks the structured appearance most HOAs prefer
Name association with 'mallow' may raise concerns about invasiveness

Wildlife value

The long blooming period provides nectar for native bees and beetles throughout the growing season. Its flowers are particularly valuable for smaller native bee species that need consistent nectar sources.

Common questions

How much sun does Alkali-mallow need?: Alkali-mallow grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Alkali-mallow bloom?: Alkali-mallow blooms in May, June, July, August, and September.
Where is Alkali-mallow native?: Alkali-mallow (Malvella leprosa) is native to AZ, CA, ID, KS and 7 more states, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).
What pollinators does Alkali-mallow attract?: Alkali-mallow draws bees and beetles.
Is Alkali-mallow HOA-friendly?: Alkali-mallow takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Native range data from the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew). Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Alkali-mallow? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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