Marshmallow

Seed Count: Approx. 20 seeds Days to Maturity: Perennial Description:  Marshmallow is a perennial shrub, in the Malvaceae (okra, cotton etc.) family, that's not just an elegant ornamental.  In fact, it has medicinal and culinary uses as well!  This plant has been responsible for making delectable marshmallows, since like the beginning of time.  I don't know about you but there honestly aren't too many sweet treats that I enjoy more than Marshmallows.  This shrub boasts delicate, 1-2 inch, hibiscus/hollyhock shaped, white to pale pink flowers that pop out against a backdrop of large, dark green, toothed, velvety leaves all summer long.  Plants grow to about 4 ft. tall, and the flowers, leaves, and roots of this plant can be used.  The flowers and roots can be used for tea.  The leaves can be eaten like vegetables, just cook them like you would spinach.  Traditionally, the roots were dried, ground, then made into a paste, and roasted to make marshmallows.  The water, left over from coo