Organic Marshmallow - Althaea officinalis

Famously known for its roots creating the popular confection, marshmallow, this beautiful perennial has been used since ancient times for its medicinal and culinary properties. 

Its roots create a creamy mucilaginous liquid that can be made into a myriad of different preparations.  Every part is edible - root, stem and flower. The botanical name stems from the Greek word "altho" which means "to cure".

• Organic

• Non-GMO

• Perennial

• Sun: Full

• Indoors: 4-6 weeks before last frost

• Direct Sow: No 

• Seed Count: 25

• Days to Maturity: 50

• Plant Size: 36" - 60"

• Attracts pollinators

• Drought Tolerant

• Medicinal

Growing Tips:

Leaves and flowers can be harvested at any point in the growing season.  Harvest roots in the spring or fall after  the plant is a few years old.

If starting seeds indoors, it is key that your new starts be hardened off.  This is a process that requires taking them outside during the day, for a period of time, before they are planted. This acclimates your seedlings to the outside world, meaning the elements like the wind and sun. We do it for several weeks to a month as this strengthens their stems and overall plant structure. 

• Start for a short period of time initially, then graduate to more time each day
• One week minimum is recommended
• Bring them inside in the early evening and overnight
• Keep an eye on them and constantly water them. Make sure they have not blown over.