The biology of Australian weeds 52. Malva parviflora L.

Malva (mallow) is derived from the Greek malache or malakos (soft), possibly referring to either the downy leaves or its medicinal properties (Mitich 1990). The genus Malva is a member of the tribe Malveae of the family Malvaceae (Corner 1976). In 1753, Carolus Linnaeus was the first to distinguish Malva species within the Malvaceae family based on their characteristic epicalyx (Ray 1998). He originally identified 15 different Malva species. Currently, there are thought to be 25-40 species of Malva throughout the world. Malva parviflora is a glabrous or pubescent annual with a single-long taproot. The derivation of the species name, its physical description, and taxonomy are described. The beneficial and detrimental effects of M. parviflora are discussed along with suggestions for weed management utilising a range of herbicide products.