Malacothamnus clementinus (San Clemente Is. bushmallow)
San Clemente Island bushmallow
A rare species of flowering plant in the mallow family that is endemic to San Clemente Island. It can reach a height of up to a five feet hight. The plant became a federally listed endangered species in 1977 when it was limited to a single population nearing extinction due to herbivory by the feral goats which once infested the small island. A bushy shrub with a thin, multibranched stem coated in long, fine hairs and Pinkish-white to lavender flowers on spikes that grow early spring to most of year in mild climates.
This plant produces a pollen that can produce an allergic reaction.
Cut back in winter. Takes heavy pruning.
Prune back after blooms to prevent woody look. Mallows spread by underground runners and form colonies.
-Full sun, some shade
-Tolerates a wide variety, including clay and sand
-Drought tolerant
-Attracts butterflies, hummingbirds, and birds
-California Native