Sphaeralcea ambigua
Desert Globemallow
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Desert Globemallow (Sphaeralcea ambigua) - Description
Sphaeralcea ambigua, commonly known as Desert Globemallow or Apricot Mallow, is a member of the genus Sphaeralcea in the mallow family (Malvaceae). It is a perennial shrub native to parts of California, Nevada, Utah, and Arizona in the U. S. ; and Sonora and Baja California in Northwest Mexico. It grows well in alkaline soil, both sandy or clay, usually in the company of creosote bush scrub and desert chaparral habitats, from 150–2,500 metres (490–8,200 ft) in elevation. It is found in the Mojave Desert, Great Basin deserts, and Sonoran Desert ecoregions.
Desert Globemallow (Sphaeralcea ambigua) - Blooming
Blooms mallow-like, red-orange flowers from summer to fall.
Desert Globemallow (Sphaeralcea ambigua) - Growth
Downy annuals, perennials, and deciduous or evergreen shrubs. Can grow up to 4 ft. tall and 3 ft. wide in full sun. Outdoors, in regions with climates below 55°F (13°C), grow plants in a warm and dry sheltered site. Make sure to protect from excess moisture during the winter. Indoors, grow in a cold greenhouse. Sphaeralcea works well in a gravel garden, or stony bank.
Desert Globemallow (Sphaeralcea ambigua) - Planting
Sow seeds in spring at 55°F (13°C). Can also propagate perennials by division in spring. Root cuttings, basal or softwood, in spring or early in summer.
Desert Globemallow (Sphaeralcea ambigua) - Pest
The only real problem is Hollyhock rust.
Desert Globemallow (Sphaeralcea ambigua) - Soil and irrigation
Needs well-drained, gravelly soil. Any more than a little water causes weedy growth and rust.
