Lavatera Arborea

The tree mallow — and one of the most architectural biennials you can grow. Lavatera arborea produces large, open, funnel-shaped flowers in soft rose-pink with darker veining on tall, shrubby plants that can reach 150–200cm in a single season, providing a dramatic, semi-permanent presence at the back of a border that bridges the gap between annual and shrub.

Self-seeds prolifically once established, creating a permanent naturalising colony. Outstanding for bees.

• Lavatera arborea — Hardy Biennial (H4)
• Height: 150–200cm | Flowers: June–September (Year 2)
• Sow outdoors May–July; flowers the following summer
• Full sun; well-drained soil — sheltered from strong wind
• Self-seeds freely — naturalises beautifully
• Outstanding bee plant — particularly bumblebees

Grow it at the back of a sunny border with Hollyhocks and Foxgloves for a towering, self-seeding cottage garden backdrop that looks after itself year after year.