ALTHÆA

(from altheo, to cure; in reference to the medicinal qualities of some of the species). Marsh Mallow. O RD. Malvaceæ. Hardy biennials or perennials, closely allied to Malva. Outer calyx six to nine-cleft, inner one five-cleft. Most species belonging to this genus are worthy of cultivation, particularly in woods, coppices, and shrubberies; they will thrive in almost any kind of soil. They may be either increased by dividing the plants at the roots, or by seeds; the biennial species must be raised from seed every year, which may be sown in spring where they are intended to remain, or in pans placed in a cold frame, from which the young plants may be removed when large enough.