What is the difference between hollyhock and common mallow? Master these points to tell them apart easily
I. Plant form differences
Hollyhock can grow up to 2 m tall, and its stems and flower branches bear bristles. Common mallow, by contrast, generally grows only 50-90 cm tall, with many branches that bear some sparse coarse hairs.
II. Leaf differences
Hollyhock leaves are nearly round-cordate, with a leaf diameter of 6-16 cm. The leaves are lobed, with the lobes triangular or rounded. They have petioles 5-15 cm long, which bear long, stiff hairs. Common mallow leaves are round-cordate or kidney-shaped, with a leaf diameter of 5-12 cm, and the leaf margins bear serrations. It also has petioles 4-8 cm long, which are almost hairless, though long, stiff hairs grow inside their grooves.
III. Flower differences
Hollyhock flowers are solitary or nearly clustered, with a flower diameter of 6-10 cm. Common mallow flowers are borne in clusters of 3-11 together, with a flower diameter of 3.5-4 cm.