Basking

Can Hermann's Tortoises eat Common Mallow?

Testudo hermanni · Malva sylvestris

Safe

Daily

USDA database

Mallow (Malva sylvestris) is widely recognized by Tortoise Trust as an excellent food for Mediterranean tortoises including Hermann's. Its favorable Ca:P ratio and high calcium content suit the species' nutritional demands.

Feeding frequency

DailyWeeklyOccasionalNever
Safe

Daily

HerbivorePlantLow oxalateNot toxic

The short answer

Mallow (Malva sylvestris) is widely recognized by Tortoise Trust as an excellent food for Mediterranean tortoises including Hermann's. Its favorable Ca:P ratio and high calcium content suit the species' nutritional demands.

Feeding it safely

How much / how often

Daily

What's inside

Per 100 g of raw common mallow

185mg

Calcium

112mg

Phosphorus

1.7:1

Ca:P ratio

Low

Oxalate

9.4g

Protein

2g

Fiber

Backed by sources

Reviewed by basking_research · June 2026

Basking is here to help you learn — it isn't veterinary advice. For anything specific to your animal, talk to a qualified exotic-animal vet.

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