Alcea or Althaea is an old garden favorite, commonly known as Hollyhocks are a group of biennials and short-lived perennials, grown for their tall spikes of 4-5 inch (10-12cm) showy flowers with some species having double flowers and reaching a height of up to 8 ft. tall (243cm), spreading up to 2 feet (61cm). Needs full sun and well-drained soil with a long blooming period. Propagate by seed in late summer or spring. Can be grown as an annual. Tolerates a wide range of soil conditions and some light shade but will not tolerate wet winter soils. Even though the plant is considered a short-lived perennial, it easily self-seeds and can establish itself in the garden for years to come.
USES: Mixed borders, Perennial gardens, Bee and butterfly gardens, Cottage gardens, Walls, Fences, Border backgrounds, Hummingbird gardens, Wildflower Gardens, Informal gardens, Coastal gardens, Cut flowers, Landscaping
TOLERATES: Rabbits, Black Walnut, Deer, Heat Tolerant, Rust Tolerant
Botanical Name: Alcea ficifolia Single Mix
Common Name: Antwerp Hollyhock, Fig leaf Hollyhock, Stockrose
Type: Erect Biennial or short lived Perennial
Flower Color: Large single flowers in a mix of deep pink, light pink, red, salmon, white, creamy yellow (sometimes double) 2-3 in. (5-8cm) across
Foliage: Veined, rough, mid-green leaves to 7 in. (18cm) long
Flowering Time: June to September
Plant Height: 6 feet (180cm)
Plant Width: 3 ft. (90cm)
Light Requirements: Full sun
Water Requirements: Average
Soil Requirements: Average / Sandy / Clay / Well drained
USDA Zone: 3-9
AHS Heat Zone: 9-1
Sowing Instructions (Cliff Notes Version): To grow as annuals, sow seed at 55°F (13°C) in late winter, or on site in mid spring. For biennials and perennials, sow seed on site in midsummer. Transplant in autumn if required when 2 or 3 true leaves have developed.
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