One of our recent thrills, Sidalcea malviflora ‘Purpetta’ is a super easy West Coast native checkermallow with sturdy stems and larger, richer flowers than you might expect from such a graceful plant. Strong, multi-branching stems carry vivid fuchsia-pink blooms that bring cheerful color and native charm to sunny borders and habitat gardens.

Also known as Purpetta Checkermallow or checkerbloom, this California native perennial is wonderful in cottage gardens, pollinator plantings, meadow-style beds, dry borders, and mixed native plantings. The upright flower spikes add vertical rhythm without feeling heavy, and the open blooms are loved by bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects. Pair it with California poppies, yarrow, native sages, buckwheats, grasses, and penstemons for a lively, locally rooted planting.

Plant Sidalcea malviflora ‘Purpetta’ in full sun with well-drained soil. Once established, it is easygoing and well suited to low-water gardens, though occasional water can extend its fresh look and bloom. Elegant, colorful, and habitat-friendly, it belongs in our California Native Perennials collection.