How to Grow Scarlet Globemallow
iNaturalist
Scarlet Globemallow
Sphaeralcea coccinea
flowerScarlet globemallow is a semi-woody perennial wildflower native to western North America, characterized by vibrant orange-red flowers and silvery-green foliage. It thrives in hot, dry environments and is drought-tolerant once established. This low-growing plant attracts hummingbirds and pollinators, making it an excellent choice for xeriscape gardens.
When should you plant Scarlet Globemallow in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Scarlet Globemallow timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
-
Plant Scarlet Globemallow
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
-
Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
-
First Scarlet Globemallow blooms
Around Aug 15≈ 120 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Scarlet Globemallow dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 4-10, with best performance in zones 5-9
Sign up free to see if Scarlet Globemallow grows in your zone — and get a personalized planting timeline.
Get my Scarlet Globemallow timeline →Growth Stages
Seed Germination
7-14 daysTiny seeds begin sprouting with cotyledons emerging. Seedlings are delicate and small.
Provide light for germination. Keep soil barely moist, not wet. Seeds germinate best with cool stratification (30 days cold treatment) or direct sowing in fall.
Seedling to Young Plant
3-4 weeksFirst true leaves appear; plants develop a taproot. Silvery foliage begins to show characteristic color.
Water sparingly and allow soil to dry between waterings. Protect from excessive moisture. Thin seedlings to proper spacing. Avoid fertilizer.
Vegetative Growth
4-8 weeksPlant develops woody stems and bushy habit, 1-2 feet tall. Foliage becomes increasingly silvery and gray-green.
Water only during severe drought. No fertilizer needed. Pinch back if leggy to encourage bushier growth. Plants become increasingly drought-tolerant.
Flowering
6-12 weeks (often June-August)Bright orange-red, globe-shaped flowers appear in clusters along stems. Continuous bloom occurs over several weeks to months.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms, though not essential. Reduce water further during peak flowering. No supplemental feeding required.
Seed Development & Dormancy
4-8 weeks through season's endFlowers fade to seed pods containing small hard seeds. Plants may die back in winter in colder zones or remain semi-evergreen in milder zones.
Allow some flowers to remain for seed collection if desired. In zones below 6, mulch lightly for winter protection. Remove dead wood in spring.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
-
Increase humidity if in containers; spray with water or neem oil if severe. Usually not a problem in dry climates where plant thrives.
-
Ensure excellent drainage and air circulation. Remove affected leaves. Avoid overhead watering. This is the primary disease risk, especially in humid regions.
-
Usually not problematic. Hand-pick if present. Insecticidal soap as a last resort.
Uses
Hummingbird Magnet
WildlifeScarlet globemallow is a favorite nectar source for hummingbirds and attracts various pollinating insects including bees and butterflies. Its bright orange-red flowers are highly visible to hummingbirds. [source]
Edible Flowers
CulinaryThe flowers are edible with a mild, slightly sweet flavor and can be used as garnish in salads or for decorating dishes. Petals can add color and delicate flavor to beverages. [source]
Traditional Native American Use
MedicinalNative American tribes historically used scarlet globemallow for medicinal purposes, including treating respiratory issues and wounds. The plant contains compounds with potential anti-inflammatory properties. [source]
Xeriscape & Low-Maintenance Gardening
HouseholdIdeal for water-wise gardens, rock gardens, and desert landscapes. Requires minimal maintenance once established and thrives in poor soil where many plants struggle. [source]
Cut Flowers & Dried Arrangements
CraftBright flowers are attractive in fresh bouquets and arrangements. Flowers and seed pods can be dried for long-lasting dried flower arrangements and crafts. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
This is an ornamental flower plant, not harvested for consumption. Cut flowers can be enjoyed in arrangements when fully open. For seed collection, allow flower heads to dry on the plant, then collect seed pods in late summer to fall. Seeds drop readily once mature.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Scarlet globemallow is native to semi-arid regions from Saskatchewan to Mexico and has evolved remarkable drought tolerance through a deep taproot system that can reach far below the soil surface.
- 🌱 The flowers are specifically adapted for hummingbird pollination, with their tubular shape and bright coloring perfectly suited to hummingbird vision and feeding behavior.
- 🌱 The plant's silvery foliage is an adaptation to intense sun and heat—the fine hairs on leaves reflect sunlight and reduce water loss, a strategy common in desert plants.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
Join 30,000 gardeners planning their gardens with LizPlants.
Get your personalized Scarlet Globemallow planting timeline
Tell us your zip code and we'll calculate exactly when to start Scarlet Globemallow seeds, transplant seedlings, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Includes calendar reminders and printable task lists. Free to start.
Get my Scarlet Globemallow timeline →