DWARF MALLOW, Malva rotundifolia L. 1, entire plant; 2, seeds. Annual, reproducing by seed. Root a short, straight taproot. Stems branching, nearly erect or spreading on surface of ground with tips generally turning up. Leaves rounded, often wider than long, 1 to 3 inches (2.5 to 7.5 cm) long, with 5 to 7 broad, rounded lobes. Flowers pale blue or nearly white, 1/3 to 1/2 inch (8 to 13 mm) wide, borne singly or in clusters at bases of petioles. Seed pod a flattened disk, usually breaking into 10 segments, 1 seed per section. Seed segments generally pie-shaped, dark brown, enclosing a black seed. Found frequently in yards, gardens, and roadsides; occasionally in cultivated fields.