Sphaeralcea is a genus of
flowering plants in the mallow
family (
Malvaceae). There are about 40-60
species, including
annuals,
perennials, and
shrubs. Most originate in the drier regions of
North America, with some known from
South America. They are commonly known as globemallows, globe mallows, false mallows or falsemallows. The name of the genus is derived from the
Greek words σφαῖρα (sphaira), meaning "sphere," and αλκεα (alkea), meaning "mallow."[2]
The
leaves of these plants are spirally arranged, and usually palmate or toothed. Both stems and leaves are downy. Like other Malvaceae, the
flowers are saucer- or cup-shaped, with the
stamens joined into a column in the center.
Sphaeralcea species are used as food plants by the
larvae of some
Lepidoptera species including Schinia olivacea, which has been recorded on S. lindheimeri.