Henderson’s Checker-mallow (Sidalcea Hendersonii)
This graceful fuchsia-like flowering perennial is native to the lush mountain meadows of Washington and Oregon, though its wild population is presently in decline. Its edible blooms will add a pop of color to your early summer landscape, as well as to summer dishes. Henderson’s Checker-mallow’s edible, heart-shaped basal leaves also make a mild flavored, vitamin-rich addition to soups and salads. A native groundcover, it thrives in moist to wet soil and full sun, and reaches two feet at maturity. It also blends nicely in wildflower gardens, as well as along borders or intermixed with other sun-loving groundcovers, such as Nodding Onion or Red Columbine. This spreading variety also goes by the name “Marsh Hollyhock”.
By inviting this native perennial into your landscaping, you also promote the health of native pollinators, including the endangered Fender’s Blue Butterfly.
Caroline Boschetto, AmeriCorps Projects Coordinator, Community Agriculture Engagement
Sources:
Jim Pojar, Andy MacKinnon. Plants of the Pacific Northwest Coast. 2004.
Native Foods Nursery: Henderson’s Checkermallow
King County Native Plant Guide: Henderson’s Checker mallow (Photo: Greg Rabourn, King County)