Pink poplar (Alcea rosea)

Other names: mallow rose, poplar rose, poplar rose, poplar rose, pink poplar, garden mallow, poplar rose, papula, mallow

Harm score: 1 (Natural substances)

The pink poplar (Alcea rosea), also known by the names mallow rose, poplar rose, poplar rose, pink poplar, garden mallow, poplar rose, papula, or poplar rose, belongs to the mallow family. This biennial or perennial herb, native to southwestern and central Asia, is a popular ornamental plant often seen in gardens and public parks. The tall stem with showy flowers, which can range in colour from white to deep red, becomes a striking feature in any flower bed.

But it's not just for its beauty that we grow the pink poplar in our gardens. Its flowers are used in the cosmetic industry in skin care products such as creams, toners, face masks or balms. In medicine, the flowers of this plant are used for their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, especially in the treatment of various skin problems. Some sources state that the pink poplar also has a mild laxative effect. Pink poplar flowers can also be used to decorate confectionery products such as cakes and sweets, including beautiful edible floral arrangements on wedding cakes. The wide range of uses for this plant shows that we really deserve to grow it in our gardens.