2023 Where Does Tree Mallow Grow Naturally: Expert Tell You

The Origin and Geographic Distribution of Tree Mallow

Tree mallow (Hibiscus sabdariffa) originated in the Mediterranean region. It grows naturally in Southern Europe, North Africa and West Asia. Tree mallow is cultivated for its flowers, fruits and medicinal properties, and is believed to have been grown for more than 2,000 years.
More comprehensive information and care guidelines can be read here.

tree mallow, evergreen tree, green pine trees on snow covered ground during daytime — *Photo by* *Michael* / *Unsplash*

Climate and Soil Preferences for Tree Mallow Growth

Tree mallow prefers a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Temperatures range from 10°C in winter to over 38°C in summer. Yearly rainfall averages between 300 to 600 mm, mainly falling between October and March. The dry season spans from spring until late autumn.

Tree mallow requires well-drained soil for optimal growth. It thrives in alkaline soil with a pH ranging from 7.5 to 8.5. Soil should be composed of coarse particles with high sand and low clay content to allow for sufficient aeration of the roots. Ideal soil types include:

Sandy loam
Sandy clay loam
Loamy sand

Tree mallow cannot tolerate poorly drained or overly acidic soils. Proper soil preparation prior to planting involves:

Adding lime to raise the soil pH if needed
Incorporating 2–4 inches of organic matter like compost or aged manure
Digging in 2-3 inches of sand or perlite for improved drainage

Climatic and soil conditions similar to the Mediterranean Basin – such as in central California and parts of Australia – can also support the growth of tree mallow.

tree mallow, blossom, purple flowers with green leaves — *Photo by* *mina smz* / *Unsplash*

Exploring Tree Mallow’s Native Habitats Around the World

Tree mallow can be found growing naturally in several regions across the Mediterranean Basin. It inhabits dry, open areas characterized by Mediterranean climate and vegetation.

Some of the countries where tree mallow occurs in the wild include:

Spain – It grows mainly in the south and east of the Iberian Peninsula, especially in dry and semi-arid areas of Andalusia, Murcia and Valencia.
Morocco – Tree mallow is widespread in the northern and central parts of Morocco, particularly along the Atlantic coast and in the Rif and Middle Atlas Mountains.
Israel and Palestine – The plant is common in the dry areas of the Levant region, especially the Negev Desert, Judean Desert and Jordan Valley.
Turkey – Tree mallow occurs in the Mediterranean and Aegean regions of Turkey, mainly within provinces like Antalya, Mersin and Icel.

Tree mallow typically inhabits open, rocky slopes and mountainsides with sparse vegetation. It also favors areas of disturbed soil, including roadsides, abandoned farmland and edges of deserts. The plant relies on seasonal rains and high temperatures to flourish.

During dry periods, tree mallow is drought-deciduous, meaning it sheds its leaves to reduce water loss. It then regrows new foliage when conditions become favorable again. This adaptability allows tree mallow to not only survive but thrive in xeric habitats.

tree mallow, hawaiian flowers, man sitting facing sea — *Photo by* *Ian Schneider* / *Unsplash*

The Adaptability of Tree Mallow to Different Environments

Though native to Mediterranean climates, tree mallow has demonstrated an ability to adapt and grow successfully in other environments with similar key characteristics.

Tree mallow can thrive in areas with warm temperate climates that receive between 25–35 inches of annual rainfall, mostly in winter, and have prolonged dry seasons in summer. As long as the following conditions are met, tree mallow adapts well:

Hot summers with average temperatures over 38°C
Medium to well-drained alkaline soil
Full sun exposure
Minimal summer rainfall

For example, tree mallow has naturalized in regions like:

Parts of California, where it occurs in similar habitat as its natural range. It grows along coastal plains, sheltered valleys, and desert foothills in southern California.
Regions of Australia like Western Australia and Queensland, where it has become established in Acacia scrublands and eucalyptus woodlands.

The key to tree mallow’s adaptability lies in its drought tolerance mechanisms. Besides dropping its leaves during drought, tree mallow has:

Deep taproots that efficiently draw water from moist layers in the soil
Grayish foliage that reflects sunlight and reduces water loss
Thick waxy coatings on its leaves to prevent too much transpiration

These unique adaptations for surviving in arid environments allow tree mallow to grow outside its native range as long as seasonal conditions of heat, low humidity and rainfall shortages are present. With proper care, tree mallow can endure temperatures as low as -10 degrees C in winter.

tree mallow, evergreen tree, a red leaf sitting on top of a green tree — *Photo by* *Jocelyn Powell* / *Unsplash*

The Adaptability of Tree Mallow to Different Environments

Though native to Mediterranean climates, tree mallow has demonstrated an ability to adapt and grow successfully in other environments with similar key characteristics.

Hot summers with average temperatures over 38°C
Medium to well-drained alkaline soil
Full sun exposure
Minimal summer rainfall

For example, tree mallow has naturalized in regions like:

Parts of California, where it occurs in similar habitat as its natural range. It grows along coastal plains, sheltered valleys, and desert foothills in southern California.
Regions of Australia like Western Australia and Queensland, where it has become established in Acacia scrublands and eucalyptus woodlands.

The key to tree mallow’s adaptability lies in its drought tolerance mechanisms. Besides dropping its leaves during drought, tree mallow has:

Deep taproots that efficiently draw water from moist layers in the soil
Grayish foliage that reflects sunlight and reduces water loss
Thick waxy coatings on its leaves to prevent too much transpiration

tree mallow, blossom, purple-petaled flowers — *Photo by* *Yoksel 🌿 Zok* / *Unsplash*

Tree Mallow’s Role in Supporting Local Ecosystems

Tree mallow provides many benefits to the ecosystems where it grows naturally. As a native plant, it serves as an important source of food and shelter for local wildlife.

Food source: The nectar, flowers, fruits and seeds of tree mallow are utilized by various animals. Birds like finches and sparrows feed on the seeds, while butterflies and bees rely on the nectar-rich flowers as a key source of nutrients. Once ripened, even the Hibiscus fruits are eaten by birds.

Cover and nesting sites: The dense tree mallow thickets provide cover and nesting places for many birds and small mammals. Its thorny, tangled branches create natural hiding places for reptiles with limited predation.

Stabilizes soil: The extensive root system of tree mallow helps hold soil particles together, preventing erosion especially on slopes and disturbed lands. Its roots also penetrate deep into the ground to access water.

Prevents desertification: As a hardy drought-resistant plant, tree mallow colonizes degraded areas at risk of turning into desert. Its ability to resprout after fire also aids in rehabilitation of burned or damaged landscapes.

Supports bees: Tree mallow flowers are exclusively pollinated by bees and provide them with vital nectar and pollen. Studies show honey bees depend on tree mallow as a major source of nectar during its flowering period from summer to fall.

In summary, tree mallow plays an important functional role within Mediterranean ecosystems by enriching habitat and resource diversity. It sustains many species through different parts of the food chain, from insects to birds. Allowing tree mallow to grow naturally in open areas thus helps maintain biodiversity and ecosystem services that benefit humans indirectly.