When does Sidalcea malviflora bloom?

Checker-mallow blooms from April through July, producing distinctive pink flowers with a checkerboard pattern.

What pollinators visit Sidalcea malviflora?

Checker-mallow attracts native bees and butterflies, making it valuable for pollinator gardens in California.

Where is Sidalcea malviflora native?

This species is native to California, where it grows naturally in grasslands, chaparral, and oak woodlands.

Is Checker-mallow HOA-friendly?

Checker-mallow is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.

Checker-mallow

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Sidalcea malviflora

Last reviewed: July 2026

Sidalcea malviflora is a native California perennial forb that produces pink checker-pattern flowers from April through July. This drought-tolerant wildflower thrives in full sun and attracts bees and butterflies.

Checker-mallow (Sidalcea malviflora) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

12"–36" H × 12"–24" W

Bloom

Apr, May, Jun, Jul

Native to

Pollinators

bees, butterflies

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Coast Range Sierra Nevada Central California Valley Central California Foothills and Coastal Mountains Southern California Mountains

Checker-mallow produces pink to rose-colored, hollyhock-like flowers on upright stems from spring through summer. This attractive native perennial forms a low mound of foliage with delicate blooms rising above, creating a lovely accent in borders or wildflower gardens.

Growing Checker-mallow

Grow Checker-mallow in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.

In an HOA neighborhood

Checker-mallow is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.

Works well in: front yard, foundation, mid zone.

Can look somewhat informal when not in bloom
May need deadheading to maintain tidy appearance

Wildlife value

Checker-mallow is valuable to native bees and butterflies, providing nectar during its long bloom period. It serves as a larval host plant for certain butterfly species.

Common questions

When does Sidalcea malviflora bloom?: Checker-mallow blooms from April through July, producing distinctive pink flowers with a checkerboard pattern.
What pollinators visit Sidalcea malviflora?: Checker-mallow attracts native bees and butterflies, making it valuable for pollinator gardens in California.
Where is Sidalcea malviflora native?: This species is native to California, where it grows naturally in grasslands, chaparral, and oak woodlands.
Is Checker-mallow toxic to dogs?: Checker-mallow is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
Is Checker-mallow toxic to cats?: Checker-mallow is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
Is Checker-mallow HOA-friendly?: Checker-mallow is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

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

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