Organic Marshmallow Seeds (Althaea Officinalis)

Organic Marshmallow (Althaea Officinalis)

It is native to Europe but can be found growing in many places around the world. It is easy to grow from Marsh Mallow seeds, and it also makes a lovely flowering display as well as having therapeutic benefits. It is a branching plant that reaches 36 to 48 inches in height. The stems are slightly wooly and the leaves are soft and downy. The flowers reach 2 inches across, have 5 petals and range in color from white to reddish-white. Hummingbirds enjoy their sweet nectar.

Both the roots and the leaves have a slimy substance called mucilage. When the mucilage is mixed with water, it creates a viscous gel that coats and sooths irritated mucous membranes. It is used for coughs, colds, sore throats, stomach and intestinal conditions. It is also very beneficial when applied to skin abrasions or insect bites.

The Marshmallow root is yellow-white and sweet. It is similar in taste to a parsnip. The roots can be harvested in the fall for drying. The history of our modern day sugary marshmallow goes back to this herb plant. The gummy substance, mucilage, was actually the thickening ingredient in a dessert made from egg whites.

How To Grow Marshmallow Plant: Marshmallow herb plants prefer moist soils. Some gardeners recommend a fall planting so that the cold temperatures aid in the germination of the Marshmallow herb seeds. If starting the Marshmallow seeds indoors, place the herb seeds in moistened peat moss, and place the peat moss/seed mixture in the refrigerator for 4 to 6 weeks. After that cold treatment, sow the herb seeds in small pots. Once established, the Marsh Mallow plant is known to self-seed but not in an aggressive way.