Marshmallow Herb Heirloom Seeds
Marshmallow Herb Heirloom Seeds
223 Ratings
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$1.99
Regular price
$3.99
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Cultivate a piece of history with our Marshmallow Herb Heirloom Seeds, known scientifically as Althaea officinalis. This perennial plant, the original source of the marshmallow confectionery, takes about 85 days to grow and features beautiful pink-white flowers reminiscent of the hibiscus. Growing 3 to 4 feet tall, marshmallow plants are not only visually appealing but also historically valued for their medicinal uses. The leaves can be used fresh or dried, adding a flavor to teas or salads, while the roots provide gummy mucilage historically used in folk remedies.
About Our Seeds:
- Non-GMO and Open-Pollinated: Ensures that you receive fine, sustainable seeds.
- Untreated: Our seeds are free from chemicals, supporting a healthy garden environment.
- Quality Tested: We regularly test our seeds to meet high germination standards.
- Eco-Friendly Packaging: Packaged in resealable, recycled packets printed with vegetable-based inks, promoting environmental responsibility.
Package Quantity:
- Contains 0.10g, approximately 50 seeds, suitable for starting or enriching your herbal garden.
Growing Instructions Included: Each packet includes detailed, easy-to-follow instructions to help you successfully grow and care for your marshmallow plants.
Planting Tips:
- Location: Best grown in full sun to partial shade.
- Soil: Prefers moist, well-draining soil.
- Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Spacing: Plant seeds or seedlings about 2-3 feet apart to accommodate mature size.
Grow your own Marshmallow Herb and enjoy both its decorative and practical benefits in your garden. Its leaves and roots offer a natural and historical remedy right in your backyard.
- Historical context: The marshmallow plant (Althaea officinalis) has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. It was well-known in ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman cultures.
- Geographical origination: The marshmallow plant is native to Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa.
- Relevant cultural significance: In ancient Egypt, the root of the marshmallow plant was used to make a honey-sweetened confection, which is considered a precursor to modern marshmallows. The plant has also been used in traditional medicine across various cultures.
- Time period of discovery: The use of marshmallow dates back to ancient times, with records indicating its use as early as 2000 BCE.
- Original habitat: Marshmallow plants typically grow in marshy areas, hence the name, and are often found in damp meadows, along riverbanks, and in coastal regions.
- Notable historical uses: Historically, marshmallow root was used to treat sore throats, coughs, and digestive issues. It was also used topically to soothe skin irritations and wounds.
- Ideal temperature range: Marshmallow plants thrive in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C).
- Soil type: They prefer rich, well-drained soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0. Adding organic matter can improve soil quality.
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun to partial shade is ideal for marshmallow plants.
- Watering needs: Marshmallow plants require consistent moisture, especially during the growing season. Ensure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged.
- Planting season: Seeds should be sown in early spring after the last frost or in late fall.
- Germination time: Marshmallow seeds typically germinate within 2 to 3 weeks.
- Growth cycle duration: The plant is a perennial and can take up to 2 years to reach full maturity.
- Common pests and diseases: Aphids, spider mites, and rust can affect marshmallow plants. Regular monitoring and organic pest control methods are recommended.
- Companion planting advice: Marshmallow plants can be grown alongside other moisture-loving herbs like mint and comfrey.
- Common challenges and solutions: Overwatering can lead to root rot. Ensure proper drainage and avoid waterlogging the soil. Regularly check for pests and use organic treatments as needed.
- Nutritional values: Marshmallow root contains mucilage, flavonoids, pectin, and various vitamins and minerals.
- Health benefits: The mucilage in marshmallow root is known for its soothing properties, making it effective in treating sore throats, coughs, and digestive issues. It also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Culinary uses: While the modern marshmallow confection is quite different, the root can be used to make herbal teas and infusions.
- Medicinal uses: Marshmallow root is used in herbal medicine to treat respiratory and digestive ailments, as well as to soothe skin irritations and wounds.
- Other unique advantages: The plant's flowers and leaves can also be used in herbal remedies, and it serves as an attractive addition to herb gardens due to its tall, showy flowers.
