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Sidalcea malviflora
Sidalcea malviflora (DC.) A. Gray ex Benth.
Dwarf Checkerbloom, Dwarf Checker-mallow, Checkerbloom
Malvaceae (Mallow Family)
Synonym(s):
USDA Symbol: SIMA2
USDA Native Status: L48 (N)
This is a variable perennial species with numerous subspecies recognized throughout its range. Rhizomes bear dense tufts of dark-green, palmately lobed, fleshy leaves above which grows a flowering stalk 6-42 in. high. Pink to purple, hollyhock-like flowers line the stalk and vary in size according to subspecies. The flowers open in the morning and twist closed at night.
This plant is very variable throughout its range, and reseeds readily.
Plant Characteristics
Duration: PerennialHabit: Herb
Leaf Arrangement: Alternate
Leaf Complexity: Simple
Breeding System: Flowers Bisexual
Fruit Type: Schizocarp
Size Notes: Up to about 42 inches tall.
Bloom Information
Bloom Color: White , Pink , PurpleBloom Time: Feb , Mar , Apr , May , Jun , Jul , Aug
Bloom Notes: Pink to lavender or rose-purple, rarely white.
Distribution
USA: CA , OR , WANative Distribution: Coastal areas from s. OR through CA
Native Habitat: Grassy slopes; mesas; prairies; open woods
Growing Conditions
Light Requirement: Part ShadeSoil Moisture: Moist
Soil Description: Moist winter/dry summer soils.
Conditions Comments: Because this plant is so variable throughout its range, it is important to use plant material native to the area in which you will be planting. In its native range, checkerblooms reseeds readily.
Value to Beneficial Insects
Special Value to Native BeesThis information was provided by the Pollinator Program at The Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation.
Propagation
Description: Most easily propagated from seed planted in the late fall. You can also divide the root crowns in the winter before the flowering stem starts to develop. Cut the root lengthwise into 2-3 pieces and replant 8-12 in. apart.Seed Treatment: Germination is enhanced if seeds are soaked in hot water overnight.
Commercially Avail: yes
Find Seed or Plants
View propagation protocol from Native Plants Network.
National Wetland Indicator Status
Region: | AGCP | AK | AW | CB | EMP | GP | HI | MW | NCNE | WMVE |
Status: | FACW | FACW |
From the National Organizations Directory
According to the species list provided by Affiliate Organizations, this plant is on display at the following locations:Santa Barbara Botanic Garden - Santa Barbara, CA
Bibliography
Bibref 841 - Native Alternatives to Invasive Plants (2006) Burrell, C. C.Search More Titles in Bibliography
Web Reference
Webref 38 - Flora of North America (2019) Missouri Botanical Garden, St. Louis, MO & Harvard University Herbaria, Cambridge, MA.Webref 23 - Southwest Environmental Information Network (2009) SEINet - Arizona Chapter
Additional resources
USDA: Find Sidalcea malviflora in USDA PlantsFNA: Find Sidalcea malviflora in the Flora of North America (if available)
Google: Search Google for Sidalcea malviflora
Metadata
Record Modified: 2023-02-27Research By: TWC Staff