Virginia Saltmarsh Mallow
Kosteletzkya virginica
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
24"–60" H × 24"–36" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
FL
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
This native perennial produces showy pink hibiscus-like flowers from summer through early fall. This robust plant thrives in wet conditions and can handle salt spray, making it excellent for coastal gardens or areas with poor drainage.
In an HOA neighborhood
Virginia Saltmarsh Mallow takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Very tall and can appear wild or weedy
- Requires consistently wet soil which may look unkempt
- May die back completely in winter leaving bare stems
Wildlife value
The large pink blooms attract bees, butterflies, and beetles throughout the long flowering season. This plant serves as a host for several native moth species.
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.
Does Virginia Saltmarsh Mallow fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.