Marsh mallow is a plant that grows in meadows and marshes of eastern Europe. It is now grown in the United States. The marsh mallow has woody stalks, which grow 2 to 4 feet (61 to 120 centimeters) high, and large leaves. Downy hair covers both stalks and leaves. The plant has bluish to pink flowers. Its root is white and shaped like a carrot. People have eaten the roots and leaves of the plant during famines. These parts also are sometimes used for medicinal purposes.
