A sentence of 500 seeds of the Khartoumian flower.

Marshmallow plant or Khatmia is a herbaceous, sweet, perennial plant that is highly tolerant and green. Its tall stems (1.5 to 2.5 meters) are covered with coarse hairs, and the stem bears a cluster of flowers throughout the summer season. It is a suitable plant for balconies and backyard gardens, easy to grow, and requires no special care. It is considered a deciduous plant. Scientific name: Alcea Rosea. Family: Malvaceae or the mallow family. Other names: Hollyhock, Jacob’s stick, flower rose, Alcea Rosea, meadow fat, Khatmia, wild mallow, Zawani rose, pink marshmallow, beauty rose, Asoul, Ghusl. Native habitat: around the Mediterranean Sea, also spread in the Arab world and the Levant, where it is one of the ingredients of the herbal tea drink known in the Levant. Propagation: by seeds only. Planting time: in the first season from September to November, and also in the second season from February to April. Flowering time: from early spring until the end of summer. Flowers and leaves: The flowers are bell-shaped, available in a variety of pastel colors including white, pink, and yellow, as well as more vibrant red and purple. The leaves are large, heart-shaped, and serrated. Height: 1.5 to 2.5 meters. Growing Khatmia and environmental conditions: Khatmia is grown by seeds, prepared by deep tilling the soil to remove weeds and stones. If necessary, add some soil and gravel to improve the soil. The seeds are evenly sprinkled into the soil at a depth not exceeding 1 cm, or in seed trays, then watered. After germination, it requires moderate watering, taking 4 days to a week to start sprouting, then the seedlings are transplanted to the permanent location. Soil and fertilizer: planted in loamy or sandy soil with moderate acidity to alkalinity. Fertilized with high-phosphorus fertilizer to promote flowering. Sun exposure: this type of plant prefers and tolerates sunlight heat, and even partial shade. Benefits of Khatmia: Khatmia is characterized by the usability of all parts except the stem for both medicinal and food purposes. It is a bee-friendly plant. The marshmallow plant has various medicinal properties as it is rich in gum. It has a soothing effect on the digestive system, softening and lubricating. It is also used as an injection against cough and asthma. The flowers are dried and used to treat kidney diseases and respiratory illnesses. Khatmia may be affected by rust disease and spider mites, so it must be sprayed with pesticides to eliminate these pests.