Mallow: common (Malva sylvestris), Hollyhock (Alcea), fam. Malvaceae.
   The ornamental "mallows" in the city, often with purple flowers, probably belong to the Common Hollyhock (Alcea rosea) species. There are also true common mallows (Malva sylvestris) in the forest, which are not easy to distinguish from Garden Tree-mallow (Lavatera thuringiaca). Moreover, in the steppes of southern Ukraine the Crimean or Rugose Hollyhock (Alcea taurica, rugosa) is abundant, having pallid yellow flowers.
   The leaves and unripe fruits are edible, though they contain a lot of mucus. The species listed above are all close to Marshmallow (Althea officinalis) and may be used as mucus-providing, antiinflammatory, expectorant, and laxative remedy.

   Common Mallow (Malva sylvestris):

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   Common Hollyhock (Alcea rosea):

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   Crimean Hollyhock (Alcea taurica):

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