The common marshmallow, , is a species indigenous to Africa, which is used as a medicinal and ornamental plant. The stems, which die down in the autumn, are erect, 3 to 4 feet (1.2 m) high, simple, or putting out only a few lateral branches. The leaves, attached by a short petiole, are ovate-cordate in shape, 2 to 3 inches long and about 1 1/4 inch wide, irregularly toothed at the edge, and thick. They are soft and velvety on both sides, due to a dense covering of stellate hairs. The pale pink flowers of the marshmallow are in bloom during August and September, and are followed, by the flat, round fruit. The leaves, flowers, and the root of all have medicinal properties. Marshmallow is traditionally used as a treatment for the irritation of mucus membranes, including use as a gargle for mouth and throat ulcers, and gastric ulcers. A confection made from the root since ancient Egyptian time evolved into today's marshmallow treat. A French recipe, called pâté de guimauve (or "guimauve" for short), included an egg white meringue and was often flavored with rose water. Pâté de guimauve more closely resembles contemporary commercially available marshmallows, which no longer contain any actual marshmallow. (Wikipedia, 2011)