The plant is native to California and northern Baja California, where it is a common member of the chaparral and coastal sage scrub plant communities. Other members of the Mallow family include hibiscus, okra, hollyhock, cotton, and a plant named Althaea officinalis, whose roots used to be used to make marshmallows, now they are made from other substances. The chaparral Mallow becomes established in dense groups after fire. It is not exclusively tied to fire, but is known for colonizing after any kind of disturbance. It is relatively short-lived, living for 1 to 2 years only. Although not highly sought after, the leaves and seedpods are edible.