Common Mallow has a range of medicinal and food uses, and can be found in many countries across the globe, from Asia to Africa and Europe. The leaves, flowers and seeds are all edible and the plant has been cultivated by many cultures, with its use dating back hundreds of years. The showy purple flowers appear throughout summer and early autumn and are a great nectar source for insects. As the whole flower is edible, this makes them suitable for decorating all sorts of creations from cakes to iced biscuits.