Sphaeralcea coulteri, commonly known as Coulter’s globemallow, is a perennial herb native to arid regions, specifically desert washes and slopes in the Sonoran and Mojave Deserts, extending from northern Mexico through California and Arizona. It can grow up to 5 feet tall and 2 feet wide, with a loose, open form. The leaves are gray-green, lobed, and covered with fine hairs, giving them a soft texture. From spring to summer, it produces clusters of showy, cup-shaped orange flowers that attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Coulter’s globemallow is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor, well-drained soils, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and naturalistic gardens in arid regions. It requires minimal maintenance once established and is often used for habitat restoration projects. In cultivation, it prefers full sun and requires little to no supplemental water after it is established, reflecting its adaptation to desert conditions. While it is not commonly afflicted by diseases, overwatering can lead to root rot.CC BY-SA 4.0