Marshmallow Herb

Althea officinalis. Same family as hollyhock, with similar (but smaller) stalks and flowers. Leaves are similar to hollyhock in shape, but downy-soft and very healthy, with no sign of the rust and other fungus diseases that plague hollyhocks. Leaves steeped in cold water make a soothing tea that will slide down the sorest throat. Edible flowers good in salads, tea, on cakes. Roots soothe inflamed skin, stomach, mucous membranes, teething, urinary discomfort.

Easy to grow: sow spring or fall, keep moist. Roots are simmered in honey to candy them--both the roots and the medicinal honey are heavenly for sore throats, coughs, or upset stomachs. The "marshmallows" at the store are a sad parody of that medicinal honey, which foams and solidifies with simmering. 40 seeds.