Marshmallow
Althaea officinalis
This Old World native has a long history of cultivation for culinary and herbal medicine uses. Growing up to six feet tall, the entire plant is edible.
When Jefferson noted "marshmellow" in his 1794 list of "Objects for the garden this year," he was referring to Althaea officinalis. The genus name, "Althaea," is derived from the Greek, "altho," to cure. Leaves, flowers, and roots were used to reduce inflammations and to ease coughs and sore throats. The boiled root produces a white, gummy matter that was used internally as a demulcent, and externally on bruises and sprains. French confectioners sweetened this starchy substance to make a paste used in sweets and desserts.
In Bloom at Monticello is made possible by support from The Richard D. and Carolyn W. Jacques Foundation.
When you're here...
Between April and October, all house tours come with a free guided Garden Tour, or you can explore the grounds on your own with the Bloomberg Connects App
Shop
Heirloom Seeds and Plants from the Monticello collection
Plant history in your gardens with seeds and plants from Monticello and the Thomas Jefferson Center for Historic Plants.
