Μολόχα, Μαλάχη η μικρανθής
Etymology of Malva parviflora: The Latin name of the genus "Malva" originates from the Ancient Greek "μαλάχη" [malache], which may derive from the verb "μαλάσσω" [malasso], meaning "to soften, soothe", referring to the leaves and an ointment made from the seeds which were supposed to be soothing to the skin. The epithet "parviflora", is a compound word that comes from the Latin "parva'', meaning "small'', and "flora", meaning "flower", hence "bearing small flowers", referring to the size of its flowers which is considered smaller than other species.
There are at least nine Malva species/taxa in the wild Cypriot habitat.
Malva parviflora is encountered somewhat all around the island up to an altitude of 1075 metres. It primarily grows in uncultivated fields. Its flowering period is between January (sometimes as late as February) and June.
How to identify Malva parviflora:
Malva parviflora's epicalyx has linear or filiform segments, something that (in Cyprus) happens also with neglecta, but neglecta appears only between 1150–1925 metres in central mountainous Cyprus. They also have different flowers (neglecta has glossy white flowers with pink stripes).
