Where did the first Marshmallows come from?

Here is some fun info for the day. Ever wonder where the name "Marshmallow" came from? Does the name really describe the sweet soft treat kids love to eat? It came from a plant, that's where! The Marshmallow plant is indigenous to Africa. It's uses date back to ancient Egypt. This plant is from the 'mallow' (malvacea) family and grows great in 'marshy' areas. Go Figure marshy mallow! The mucilage of the root of this plant was mixed with sugar and flavoring and used as a sore throat remedy. Eventually it was also mixed with egg whites - getting closer to the confection in todays grocery stores called marshmallow. Many of the mallow plants are fully hardy in zone 4. I have grown marshmallow plants for years. They are large plants, 3-6 feet tall, so back of the border for these guys. The flowers are tiny, about 3/4" across. Marshmallow is also related to Hollyhocks, which is likely more common around here.