Marshmallow ( Althaea officinalis ) is a perennial plant growing to 1 to 1.5 meters tall, native to Europe and western Asia. It is known for its medicinal properties, particularly for soothing mucous membrane irritations.

2. Sowing

• Difficulty level : Medium
• Sowing Type : Indoors, 6 to 8 weeks before last frost (early April in zone 5-6)
• Sowing technique : The seeds require cold stratification. Mix the seeds with a moist growing medium (such as vermiculite, perlite, or sand) and place them in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for 2 to 4 weeks. Then, sow the seeds on the surface, pressing them lightly into the soil without covering them, as they need light to germinate.
• Sowing depth : On the surface
• Germination days : 14 to 21 days
• Germination temperature : 20 to 22C

3. Culture

• Ease of cultivation : Average
• Growing season : Spring to fall
• Transplanting : After all risk of frost (end of May to beginning of June in zone 5-6)
• Plant spacing : 45 to 60 cm between plants
• Hardiness Zone : 3 to 9
• Light : Full sun to partial shade
• Soil type : Humiferous, well drained
• Soil pH : Neutral to slightly acidic
• Soil moisture : Keep the soil moist, especially during dry periods
• Soil fertility : Moderately demanding
• Time before flowering : 2 years after sowing
• Watering : Regular, avoid drying out the soil
• Other features : Attracts pollinators, ideal for beds and borders

4. Use

The leaves and roots of marshmallow are used in herbal medicine for their emollient and soothing properties, particularly to relieve irritation of the mucous membranes.

5. Companionship

• Friendly plants : Yarrow, chamomile, echinacea
• Enemy plants : None known

This medicinal plant is well adapted to Quebec’s climates and is an excellent choice for gardeners wishing to enrich their garden with species with therapeutic properties.