Alcea rosea – the common Hollyhock – is a quintessential cottage garden plant, appreciated since the 18th century for its majestic flower spires, elegant colour-range and pollinator-friendly blooms. These stately perennials are relatively short-lived but an easy to grow crowd-pleaser. Racemes of large, saucer-shaped flowers sway gently atop tall stems and embrace a wide colour range through pink, purple, red, white and yellow. A romantic flower that has a dramatic presence in the border and vase displays. Height: 180cm (71in). Spread: 60cm (24in).
Growing Information
These bareroot plants are lifted from the nursery field when dormant, and sent to you in late autumn or spring for planting. They often look dead on arrival, but they are just resting in the dormant period and will establish quickly for a strong start in the garden come spring.
Plant bareroots at the earliest opportunity following delivery. If conditions prevent immediate planting, set roughly into loose soil or a pot of compost (‘heeling in’) to protect the roots. The growth points of most bare root perennials should be set about an inch below the soil surface.
Plant out Hollyhocks in sunny borders in fertile, well drained soil. Choose a position that is sheltered from strong winds. Space hollyhock plants at least 60cm (24") apart to improve air circulation and help prevent hollyhock rust.
Feed and water regularly until hollyhocks are fully established. Support their tall stems with bamboo canes as the flower spikes develop. In autumn, cut back the old foliage and faded hollyhock flower stems, and apply a mulch of well rotted manure or garden compost to the base of the plant.
