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I grew up wit a plant we call Malva locally. I have been fascinated by these plants since almost forever.
It's also the first plant I cultivated myself. From an almost dried out stick. One with red flowers. I thought myself a genius.
Years later I realized that these plants are really easy to cultivate. There goes the genius theory.
Later on I found out that there are a lot of colors and varieties available and there are a look alike that is just as fascinating.
Malva is a general name for Geraniums and Pelargonium is a variety of geranium. Seperating Pelargonium from Geranium may be a bit complicated. I learned something interesting though.
Then I found a fun fact that had me réalise the differences. The petals of the flower of the Geranium are all the same size while the two top petals of the flower of the Pelargonium are bigger than the three bottom ones.
The picture above is the first two Pelargonium flowers in my garden this year.
I still love them all.
I am including Malva in my food forest garden. Generally the leaves of the Geranium and Pelargonium are edible but Pelargonium may have a higher nutritional value.
With cented geraniums the flower and the leaves are edible. The taste also mimics the flavor. The rose flavored one has a rose like taste, lemon cented an citrus like taste and so on. If you like interesting creative cooking this is plants you should have at hand.
I'm not saying that Malvas are going to be part of any staple in my diet soon but they will always be part of my garden. It grows to easily to pass up.
I appreciate your support.
Live life to the fullest.