Difference between Althaea and Malva
In courtyard flower planting, Althaea and Malva are often confused due to their similar umbellate inflorescences. Although these two plants, which belong to the same Malvaceae family, share family characteristics, they have significant differences in growth形态 and ornamental value. Mastering their identification points can help horticulture enthusiasts more accurately configure and care for plants.
Comparison of Plant Morphological Characteristics
Differences in Plant Structure
Althaea exhibits astonishing vertical growth, with biennial plants reaching a height of 2 meters, the stems straight as bamboo, densely covered with star-shaped bristles, this defense mechanism can effectively resist animal grazing.
Malva maintains a clustering form below 90 centimeters, with a multi-branched characteristic forming a hemispherical plant, the stems are only sparsely covered with coarse hair, which can be felt as a distinct felt texture when touched.
Leaf Morphology Comparison
Althaea leaves can reach the size of an adult's palm, the veins are radially distributed, and the convex veins on the back are densely covered with bristles, which can enhance the wind resistance of the leaves.
Difference between Althaea and Malva
Malva leaves present a unique kidney shape, the sawtooth edges are shallower, and the leaf texture is as soft as velvet, which allows it to drain accumulated water faster in rainy and cloudy weather.
Analysis of Ornamental Characteristics of Flowers
Inflorescence and Flowering Period
Althaea's towering inflorescence in June to August is visually striking, with a single plant capable of simultaneously opening 30-50 double flowers, creating a unique three-dimensional color effect with gradient colors.
Malva continuously blooms umbellate inflorescences from May to October, each flower lasting only 2-3 days, but when the group is in bloom, it forms a purple mist effect, especially suitable for creating a natural wild landscape.
Petal Structure
Althaea petals often have dark blotches at the base, which serve as precise nectar guides for pollinating insects. Malva petals present a standard five-petal structure, with a radially symmetrical shape that aligns more with traditional aesthetics.
Suggestions for Practical Application Scenarios
Althaea is suitable for use as a background in flower borders or as fence decoration, with its tall plant form effectively blocking the line of sight. Malva's low-growing nature is suitable for edging in flower beds or configuring in rock gardens, with the clustering characteristic quickly forming a ground cover effect. When mixed planting, a 1-meter spacing should be maintained to avoid root competition.
By systematically comparing the plant structure, leaf characteristics, and flowering performance, these two ornamental plants can be accurately distinguished. Correct identification can not only enhance the effect of horticultural landscaping but also allow for targeted care plans to be developed, allowing courtyard flowers to show their best ornamental state.