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