Malva ‘Mystic Merlin’ Seeds

Tall spikes loaded with silky, saucer-shaped flowers in a mesmerizing deep violet-purple. A rust-free alternative to Hollyhocks that flowers tirelessly from early summer right through to the first autumn frosts.

If you love the height of Hollyhocks but struggle with rust, Malva sylvestris ‘Mystic Merlin’ is the perfect alternative. This stunning variety produces tall, sturdy spikes loaded with silky, saucer-shaped flowers in a rich, mesmerizing shade of deep violet-purple, intricately veined with dark maroon.

True to its name, the colour can be quite magicalshifting from deep indigo-purple to rich magenta depending on the temperature and soil. It forms a substantial, shrubby mound that flowers tirelessly from early summer right through to autumn, providing a dramatic, dark backdrop for brighter plants.

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Understanding the Plant

Malva sylvestris ‘Mystic Merlin’ is a vigorous Short-Lived Perennial (H5). In the UK, it typically lives for 3-4 years, gaining size and drama each season. It is a fantastic “self-sower,” often dropping seeds that will provide you with a permanent, free colony of mystical purple blooms.

First-Year Flowers: Unlike many tall perennials that require two seasons to establish, ‘Mystic Merlin’ is exceptionally fast. If sown early in the spring, it will reach its full towering height and bloom profusely in its very first summer.

Pollinator Haven: Listed on the RHS Plants for Pollinators list, this variety is a vital nectar source. The wide, open saucer-shaped flowers make food easily accessible to a huge range of British bees and butterflies.

Growing Guide

Malvas are robust, adaptable plants that are exceptionally easy to raise from seed.

How to Sow:
Sow indoors from February to May or directly outdoors in May. If sowing indoors, surface sow the seeds onto moist compost and cover with a light dusting of vermiculite. Keep at 15-20C; germination usually occurs within 14-21 days. Transplant carefully to minimize root disturbance.

Where to Plant:
They thrive in full sun or partial shade. ‘Mystic Merlin’ is remarkably unfussy about soil and will grow happily in everything from heavy clay to dry, sandy ground, provided there is reasonable drainage. Its impressive height makes it a perfect candidate for the back of a border or against a sunny wall.

Ongoing Care:
The Mid-Summer Chop: If the plant begins to look straggly or “leggy” after its first flush of flowers in July, shear the stems back by about half. Water it well, and it will quickly reward you with lush fresh foliage and a second wave of flowers for the autumn.

Plant Specifications

Beautiful Garden Combinations

The deep violet tones of ‘Mystic Merlin’ look spectacular when paired with silvers or contrasting yellows from our collection:

• Rose Campion (Lychnis): The Silver Partner. The striking grey, felted leaves of Rose Campion provide a perfect foil for the dark purple flowers of the Mallow. Both plants self-seed happily and love similar UK garden conditions.
• Rudbeckia ‘Autumn Forest’: The Colour Clash. For a high-impact late summer display, pair the deep violet Mallow with the golden-orange daisies of Rudbeckia. Purple and orange are classic complementary colours that make a border truly glow.

Sowing & Flowering Calendar

Sow in spring for towering spikes of magical purple blooms from June until October.

Edible Beauty
Malva flowers and young leaves are 100% edible! They have a mild flavour similar to lettuce and make a spectacular, vibrant garnish for summer salads or botanical cakes.

Robust Garden Performer

Selected for its magical colour depth and ability to thrive in various UK soil types, ‘Mystic Merlin’ is a reliable, floriferous choice for those who want the elegance of a Hollyhock in a more manageably-scaled perennial form.

Want more detailed growing advice?
View our Complete Growing Guide for Perennials