Saturday, June 11, 2016

Globemallow (Sphaeralcea coccinea)

Globemallow; Orem Foothills, 6/5/16; David Kenison

The distinctive red-orange blooms of the Globemallow set it apart from other flowers blooming in the Wasatch foothills. Each flower consists of five heart-shaped petals surrounding a cluster of yellow stamen.  Sometimes written as "Globe Mallow," and also known as Common Globemallow, Scarlet Globemallow, Orange Globemallow, and Scarlet Falsemallow.

Globemallows thrive in hot and dry conditions, and so are often found in the foothills in the springtime. They typically appear in balls or stems of multiple flowers. Leaves are covered by fine hairs.

Varieties of this plant were used by Native Americans to color earthenware dishes. Crushed or chewed leaves can be used as a poultice for burns, sores, and skin irritations.

These photos were taken by the author at a variety of locations around Utah.  Click to view enlargements.




Additional information:
USDA profile
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

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