Lavatera species - .
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Tree Lavatera
gbif· cc-by
GBIF
gbif· cc-by
GBIF
gbif· cc-by
Meise Botanic Garden
Description
Lavatera species is an evergreen Shrub growing to 2.4 m (7ft 10in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8 and is not frost tender. It is in leaf all year. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.
Edible Uses
Young leaves - raw or cooked. A mild flavour, but tough and not very worthwhile. When cooked the leaves have a somewhat slimy consistency. Flowers - raw. A pleasant mild flavour, they make a decorative addition to the salad bowl.
Distribution
S. Europe - Greece.
Where It Grows
Coming Soon
Cultivation
Easily grown in any ordinary garden soil. Prefers a light well-drained moderately fertile soil in full sun. A soil that is too rich encourages foliar growth at the expense of flowering. Tolerates maritime exposure. An unknown species from Greece given to us by Bill of Falmouth. It is very fast growing, even in a very exposed position but is short lived, usually only 3 - 4 years before it starts breaking up in the wind. The plant is probably too floriferous for its own good but if self-sows freely. Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus.
Propagation
Seed - sow spring in a cold frame and only just cover the seed. Germination is usually quick and good. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough to handle and plant them out in early summer. Basal cuttings in spring. Cuttings of softwood in June/July.
