Desert globe mallow, also known as "apricot mallow," is a flowering plant native to desert areas in the American West and Southwest, along with parts of Baja and Sonora. It is highly adapted to these harsh environments and needs very little water. Desert globe mallow blooms spectacularly from March until November, sending up columns studded with bright orange flowers that glow against the gray-green foliage. In the wild, these flowers have a special relationship with the globe mallow bee, a native species of bee that lives primarily on the nectar and pollen of this plant alone.
For gardeners in California, desert globe mallow is an excellent low-water choice, and can be included in xeriscape plantings that require no additional irrigation once established.
Growth Form: Bush up that grows up to 3 ft tall
Light: Full sun to part shade
Water: Very drought tolerant once established
Soil: Sandy or well-draining soils
Hardiness: USDA zones 9-11, Sunset zones 3, 7-24.
Type: Perennial