Alcea rosea
Hollyhock
Common names: Stock rose
Photo: Hanay · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source
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Description
The hollyhock (Alcea rosea) is a biennial to short‑lived perennial in the mallow family. It produces flower stalks up to two meters tall in white, pink, red, purple, and almost black, a common sight in cottage gardens. In its first year it forms only a low rosette of leaves; from the second year the unbranched stem shoots upward with tiered, funnel‑shaped flowers. It is best planted against fences, walls, or as a tall backdrop in perennial beds. The flowers are edible and can be used for tea or as salad garnish.
Care instructions
Plant the hollyhock in full sun, preferably wind‑protected such as a south‑facing or fence wall, where it receives reflected heat. The soil should be deep, well‑drained, and rich in humus to allow the taproot to develop freely; it does not tolerate waterlogged soil. Water regularly during dry periods, close to the soil surface, to prevent mallow rot. To encourage continuous blooming, leave some spent stems with mature seeds and remove them only in spring.
Soil & site
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