Checkerbloom grows in a variety of environments

Sidalcea, a member of the mallow family, is a hardy perennial wildflower that thrives in a variety of environments. Sidalcea, a member of the mallow family, is a hardy perennial wildflower that thrives in a variety of environments. Photo: Annie's Annuals & Perennials Photo: Annie's Annuals & Perennials Image 1 of / 4 Caption Close Checkerbloom grows in a variety of environments 1 / 4 Back to Gallery

May is a wonderful month to visit meadows, whether at sea level or on nearby hills. There you will find a wealth of local natives, including lupines, blue-eyed grass, California buttercups, baby-blue eyes and coyote mint. One of the prettiest and most common discoveries hikers come across are native checkerblooms.

A member of the mallow family, sidalcea is a tough and pretty perennial wildflower that has found its way into nurseries in recent years.

Sidalcea malviflora is the most widely available species, with a number of varieties available to those seeking to add a drought-tolerant native to their garden. This checkerbloom features rounded to kidney-shaped basal leaves, with more deeply lobed stem leaves to 3 inches. In late spring, it produces a 2- to 3-foot spike dotted with 1-inch, deep-pink flowers that feature attractive white veining. At first glance, the flowering stems remind one of hollyhocks, another malva family member.

Checkerbloom is reliable and easy to grow, performing well in a variety of environments. In the wild, it is often found among grasslands or in meadows dotted with native perennials. It likes some moisture to get established but will tolerate moderate to little water once it's gotten a toehold. Given dry conditions, it will go summer-dormant. However, that situation is easily remedied in a garden, where a little regular water will extend its blooming period.

I always feel a certain kinship with plants in my garden that one can find in nature within an hour's drive. You can utilize local natives in a variety of ways, even put them in containers. That said, sidalcea benefits being in the ground, where it can establish itself over time.