Deer do eat globe mallow. Globe mallow, also known as scarlet globemallow or Sphaeralcea coccinea, is a plant that is commonly found in dry, arid regions. It is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the mallow family, Malvaceae. The plant produces vibrant red-orange flowers that are highly attractive to various species, including deer.
Deer are herbivores and have a diverse diet that consists mainly of plants. They are known to consume a wide range of vegetation, including leaves, grasses, and flowers. Globe mallow is no exception to their palate. The tender leaves and colorful flowers of globe mallow are highly appealing to deer, and they often browse on this plant when it is available.
In my personal experience as a gardening and landscaping expert, I have witnessed deer grazing on globe mallow in areas where it grows abundantly. Deer are known to be opportunistic feeders, and they will consume whatever plant material is accessible and palatable to them. Globe mallow provides a nutritious food source for deer, especially during times when other forage may be scarce.
It is important to note that while deer do eat globe mallow, they are not the only animals that utilize this plant for forage. Pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, and domestic sheep also find globe mallow to be an excellent food source. Bison, prairie dogs, jack rabbits, and other small mammals also rely on this plant for sustenance.
In addition to being a food source for various wildlife species, globe mallow also serves as important forage for livestock. It is rated as excellent forage for domestic sheep, providing them with necessary nutrients. This makes it a valuable plant for farmers and ranchers in arid regions where other forage options may be limited.
Furthermore, globe mallow is not only beneficial for animals but also plays a role in supporting the ecosystem. The plant attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies with its vibrant flowers, contributing to the overall biodiversity of the area. Additionally, some small birds feed on the fruits of globe mallow, further utilizing this plant as a food source.
Deer do eat globe mallow, along with various other animals. This plant provides important forage for wildlife such as pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, and domestic sheep. It also supports the ecosystem by attracting pollinators and providing food for small birds. Globe mallow is a valuable plant in arid regions, serving as a source of nutrition for both wildlife and livestock.
