Hollyhock Alcea rosea
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as Hollyhock is recognized for its showy blooms which cluster along a tall, central stem. These flowers come in a range of colors including white, pink, red, yellow, and purple, often with a contrasting center or eye. Each bloom is sizable and has a ruffled or papery texture, resembling a circular or cup-shaped form. The leaves of Hollyhock are large, coarse-textured, and have a heart or palmate shape with distinct lobes. These leaves are typically a deep green hue and have a slight fuzziness to their surface. Hollyhocks may also display a woody base as the plant matures. Despite the constraints on mentioning specific dimensions, it is notable that Hollyhocks are generally known for their impressive vertical presentation in a garden setting.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Hollyhock, Garden Mallow, Rose Mallow, Common Hollyhock.
Common names
Althaea rosea, Alcea ficifolia, Alcea flexuosa.
ToxicityTo humans
Hollyhock (Alcea rosea) is not known to be toxic to humans. Generally, it is considered safe and is sometimes even used in herbal remedies. However, as with many plants, individuals with specific allergies may have adverse reactions.
To pets
Hollyhock is not typically toxic to pets. This includes common household pets such as dogs and cats. However, individual animals may have sensitivities or allergic reactions, and ingestion of any plant material may potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Biennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
5-8 feet (1.5-2.4 meters)
Spread
1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Europe, Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Alcea rosea, commonly known as Hollyhock, has tall spikes of large, colorful blooms that add vertical interest and a classic cottage garden appeal to landscaping.
- Attracts Pollinators: Hollyhocks are known to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, which are vital for the health of gardens and the pollination of many other plants.
- Diversity of Colors: Hollyhocks come in a range of colors including white, pink, red, yellow, and purple, which can be used to create a vibrant and attractive garden display.
- Easy to Grow: Hollyhocks are relatively easy for gardeners to grow from seed and can establish themselves in a variety of soil types, although they prefer well-drained soil.
- Historical Significance: With a rich history of cultivation, Hollyhocks have been a staple in traditional gardens and have often been associated with rustic and rural settings.
- Vertical Accent: Due to their height, which can exceed 6 feet, Hollyhocks can be used to create dramatic vertical accents in garden beds and borders.
- Cottage Garden Staple: Their quintessential old-world charm makes Hollyhocks a perfect fit for cottage garden designs and other informal garden styles.
- Reseeding Potential: Hollyhocks are biennials or short-lived perennials but can reseed themselves, providing a long-lasting presence in the garden without the need for replanting.
Medical Properties- Demulcent: Alcea rosea, commonly known as hollyhock, is used for its soothing properties on mucous membranes.
- Emollient: The plant has been traditionally used to soften and soothe the skin.
- Diuretic: Hollyhock has been known to promote the production of urine, which can aid in flushing out the kidneys.
- Anti-inflammatory: Some components of the plant may help reduce inflammation.
- Laxative: In traditional practice, Alcea rosea may be used to relieve constipation.
- Expectorant: The plant is said to help in expelling phlegm from the throat or lungs.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dye Production: Alcea rosea petals, particularly from dark-colored varieties, can be used to create natural dyes for coloring fabrics and yarns.
- Poultry Feed: The flowers and leaves of Alcea rosea can be added to poultry feed as a source of vitamins and to enhance the color of egg yolks naturally.
- Composting Material: Alcea rosea’s stalks and foliage, being rich in nutrients, are excellent additions to compost piles to help enrich the soil.
- Fiber Source: The stems of Alcea rosea contain fibrous material, which can be used in papermaking or as a natural textile fiber after proper processing.
- Edible Flowers: The blossoms of Alcea rosea are edible and can be used to garnish salads, desserts, or to make a visually appealing herbal tea.
- Natural Mulch: Fallen Alcea rosea leaves and stalks can be used as natural mulch to conserve soil moisture and suppress weeds.
- Garden Stabilization: With its deep roots, Alcea rosea helps to stabilize soil and prevent erosion in garden beds.
- Decorative Displays: Dried Alcea rosea flowers can be used in floral arrangements or crafts for their lasting color and unique texture.
- Livestock Forage: Although not a common forage crop, Alcea rosea can be consumed by livestock like goats as part of a diverse diet.
- Biodegradable Planters: Hollow Alcea rosea stalks can be used as biodegradable planters for starting seeds or growing small plants.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Hollyhock is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Hollyhock is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Fertility and Abundance: Alcea rosea, commonly known as Hollyhock, often symbolizes fertility due to its prolific seed production and its ability to self-sow and proliferate in the garden.
- Ambition: With its tall spikes reaching towards the sky, the Hollyhock represents ambition and the desire to achieve one's goals.
- Heartfelt Emotions: The Hollyhock's beautiful, showy flowers are associated with the expression of deep or heartfelt emotions.
- Survival: As Hollyhocks are resilient and can thrive in tough conditions, they embody the spirit of survival and the ability to overcome challenges.
- Generosity: The abundant blooms and generous seed production of the Hollyhock stand for generosity and the sharing of wealth.
WaterHollyhocks (Alcea rosea) prefer consistently moist soil, so water them deeply once a week, allowing about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water per plant each time. During hot and dry periods, watering frequency should increase to twice per week. It's important to water the base of the plant, rather than overhead, to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. Water early in the morning to allow any moisture on the leaves to evaporate during the day. In cooler climates or during rainy spells, reduce watering to prevent waterlogging, as hollyhocks do not like soggy soil.
LightHollyhocks thrive in full sun, requiring at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. They are best suited for a south or west-facing garden where they can receive ample sunshine throughout the day. Partial shade is tolerated, but too much shade can lead to weak stems and fewer blooms.
TemperatureHollyhocks favor a temperate climate and grow best in temperatures ranging from about 60 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate a minimum temperature down to about 50 degrees Fahrenheit. However, ideally, they should not be exposed to temperatures below freezing, as this can damage or kill the plant.
PruningPrune hollyhocks to remove spent flowers and promote reblooming. Pruning should be done throughout the blooming season as flowers fade. Additionally, cut back the stalks to the ground level in late fall or early winter after they have finished flowering and died back. This helps to prevent disease and encourages vigorous growth in the following year.
CleaningAs needed
SoilHollyhocks (Alcea rosea) thrive in well-draining, rich soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0. A mixture of loam, compost, and a small amount of sand to promote drainage constitutes the best soil for this plant. Adding compost or well-rotted manure will enhance the soil's nutrient content and support robust growth.
RepottingHollyhocks are biennials or short-lived perennials and typically do not require repotting as they are often grown from seed and may not survive long enough to need repotting. Instead, they are usually replaced or reseeded in the garden after their blooming cycle.
Humidity & MistingHollyhocks prefer outdoor environments where humidity is naturally regulated and do not require any special humidity conditions. They are adaptable and can tolerate a range of humidity levels found in typical garden settings.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow Hollyhocks indoors with ample light and space.
Outdoor
Plant Hollyhocks in sun, well-draining soil, space well.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleAlcea rosea, commonly known as hollyhock, begins its life cycle with seed germination, which occurs in spring or fall, often requiring a period of cold to break dormancy. The germinated seeds give rise to seedlings, which develop into a low rosette of leaves in the first year, with the plant staying in a vegetative state. In the second year, it produces a tall, sturdy stalk that can reach 5 to 8 feet in height, where buds form and bloom into large, colorful flowers, typically in mid-summer. These trumpet-shaped flowers are capable of self-pollination, but are often cross-pollinated by insects such as bees. After pollination, the flowers produce fruits called schizocarps, which contain multiple seeds that are dispersed by wind or falling to the ground nearby. Hollyhocks are biennials or short-lived perennials, so after seed dispersal, the plant typically dies, although they may reseed and grow again if the conditions are favorable.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The most popular method for propagating the common hollyhock (Alcea rosea) is through seed sowing. Seeds can be directly sown outdoors just before the last frost of spring, or for earlier blooms, they may be started indoors about 6 to 8 weeks before the last expected frost. Indoors, plant seeds at a depth of about 1/4 inch (approximately 6 millimeters) in a seed-starting mix, maintaining a temperature of around 70°F (21°C). Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Once the seedlings have developed their second set of true leaves and there is no more risk of frost, they can be transplanted outdoors spaced about 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 centimeters) apart to allow for adequate air circulation and growth.
