Henderson’s checkermallow is commonly found along the Washington coast, but a few populations grow further south here along the Oregon coast.  In the hollyhock family, this perennial grows up to four feet tall.  Unlike the rosy checkermallow, it doesn’t spread very quickly, staying nicely contained in a fountain-shaped clump in the garden.  The dense pink flowering spikes attract loads of butterflies and bees. Because it’s accustomed to plenty of water along the coast, it prefers moist soil in summer along with full sun to part shade.

Leaves and flowers are a choice edible. We sell them to several gourmet restaurants in town.