Sphaeralcea munroana (Munro’s Globemallow)

One of the gems of the arid western United States, Sphaeralcea munroana (Munro’s Globemallow) is an attractive multi-branched perennial sub-shrub boasting a profusion of brilliant pale orange to brick-red, cup-shaped flowers, 0.75 in. across (2 cm), from late spring to mid-summer. Borne in showy clusters along the upright stems, the flowers provide a rich source of pollen and nectar to butterflies and many species of bees. The stems and small, silvery green, 3-5 lobed leaves, 2.5 in. long (6 cm), are covered with fine white hairs, giving them a slightly rough texture. An effortless plant in the garden, Munro’s Globemallow is adapted to dry areas with open exposure. Drought tolerant, it is often found growing in rocky, sandy soil. It is perfect for water-wise borders, rock gardens, banks, desert shrub areas, along driveways and walkways, and is also suitable for container planting. 

• Grows up to 24-36 in. tall (60-90 cm) and 18-24 in. wide (45-60 cm).
• Thrives in full sun in sandy or loamy, well-drained soils. Does not grow well in clay soils. Drought tolerant once established.
• It is a great candidate for beds and borders, rock gardens, or Mediterranean gardens.
• No serious pest or disease issues. Keep an eye out for a fungal rust pathogen (Puccinia sherardiana).
• Sphaeralcea plants are important forage sources for a number of rodents, rabbits, deer, and antelope. Browsing deer will often consume all the foliage and leave only the woody base.
• Cut back after flowering to rejuvenate the plant.
• Propagate by seed. The seed has an impermeable seed coat and should be scarified using boiling water or other treatment prior to planting if a high initial germination rate is desired.
• Native to western North America. It is found throughout British Columbia and the western states of Washington, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, Utah, Nevada, Oregon, and California.