Flowers
Alcea Black - Hollyhock
Hollyhock
Stately Hollyhocks have been favourites in cottage gardens for centuries. The tall flower spikes of this stunning variety are smothered with dramatic deep maroon blooms that rise above hummocks of basal leaves. Superb towards the back of a sunny border and against walls or fences.
- Plant type
- Perennial
- Position
- Full Sun
- Height
- 2m
- Spread
- 60cm
Growing calendar
Sowing & growing
Sow in-situ or under glass Feb-April. Sow seeds on the surface of soil 20mm apart in a tray or cells. Lightly cover the seed with soil and keep at 15-21°C. Transplant seedlings into separate pots when large enough. Handle by the leaves only as stem is easily damaged. Acclimatise outdoors before planting out from May. Can be sown June-Aug and overwintered for flowers the following spring/summer.
Aftercare
Ideally grown against a sunny wall, so may need staking in exposed sites. Hollyhocks are prone to rust fungus, although this does not often affect their performance. Treat with fungicide if desired.
Gallery
Ref. SEA006