Lavatera (Lavatera trimestris), commonly known as annual mallow or rose mallow, is a fast-growing flowering annual prized for its large, satiny, hibiscus-like blooms and long season of colour. Producing abundant flowers in shades of soft pink, rose, and white from early summer until the first hard frost, Lavatera creates an elegant cottage garden look while adding height, texture, and continuous blooms to sunny landscapes. The large funnel-shaped flowers are carried above lush green foliage on sturdy, branching stems, creating an airy yet impressive display. The nectar-rich blooms attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators throughout the growing season, making Lavatera an excellent addition to pollinator-friendly gardens. Its naturally upright habit also makes it a beautiful cut flower for fresh bouquets. Lavatera performs beautifully in cottage gardens, borders, cutting gardens, pollinator gardens, raised beds, and mixed annual plantings. It pairs exceptionally well with cosmos, salvia, snapdragons, ornamental grasses, zinnias, dahlias, larkspur, and roses, creating colourful displays with a relaxed, romantic appearance. In Alberta, Lavatera provides dependable flowering from early summer until autumn frost, thriving in sunny locations with excellent air circulation and well-drained soil.
