Description

🌸 Hollyhocks (genus Alcea) are tall, showy flowering plants that bring a nostalgic charm to gardens—especially cottage-style ones. Here’s a quick dive into what makes them special:

🌿 Overview

• Botanical name: Alcea rosea (most common species)
• Family: Malvaceae (mallow family)
• Type: Biennial or short-lived perennial
• Height: 4 to 8 feet tall
• Bloom time: Summer (June to September)
• Colors: White, pink, red, yellow, purple—even near-black varieties like ‘Blacknight’

🌞 Growing Conditions

• Sunlight: Full sun is ideal; partial shade tolerated
• Soil: Moist, well-drained, and rich in organic matter
• Spacing: 18–24 inches apart to prevent fungal rust
• Watering: Regular, especially during dry spells; water at the base to avoid leaf disease

🐝 Benefits

• Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds
• Adds vertical interest to borders and fences
• Self-seeds easily for recurring blooms