Grow Alcea rosea, the stunning Hollyhock, for garden drama: here is how

Hollyhock. Alcea rosea.
Alcea rosea by Acabashi is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Hollyhocks, known botanically as Alcea rosea, are iconic cottage garden plants. With their towering spires of cup-shaped flowers, they bring height and drama to flower beds and borders.

Hollyhocks bloom in a variety of colours, including pink, red, yellow, white, and even black, making them versatile for many garden designs.

These biennials or short-lived perennials are perfect for creating a traditional English garden feel. They look stunning when planted alongside delphiniums, foxgloves, or roses. Hollyhocks are especially effective when grown against walls or fences, where their tall stems can be supported.

Hollyhocks also make fantastic cut flowers, as you can see below:

Alcea Rosea Hollyhocks

All about Alcea

Hollyhocks are prized for their old-world charm and ability to attract bees and butterflies to the garden. Despite their impressive appearance, they are relatively easy to grow and maintain with a few simple care requirements.

Key facts

  • Scientific name and any synonyms: Alcea rosea
  • Meaning of scientific plant name: “Alcea” is derived from the Greek word “alkaia,” meaning “healer,” reflecting its historical medicinal use.
  • Common names: Hollyhock
  • Plant family: Malvaceae
  • Place of origin of the plant: Western Asia and southeastern Europe
  • Type of plant: Biennial or short-lived perennial
  • Size: 6–8 feet (1.8–2.4 m) tall and 1–2 feet (30–60 cm) wide
  • Foliage – Description of foliage: Large, lobed leaves with a rough texture; grows in a basal rosette
  • Flower – Description of flower and flowering time: Large, funnel-shaped flowers that bloom in summer, typically from June to August
  • Fruit – Description of fruit (if any) and fruiting time: Produces small, disc-shaped seeds in dry capsules after flowering
  • Toxicity: Non-toxic to pets and humans.
Alcea rosea - Hollyhocks

Care requirements

Care AspectDetails
Light requirements:Full sun
Water and humidity requirements:Moderate water needs; prefers evenly moist but well-drained soil
Temperature requirements:Thrives in 65–85°F (18–29°C); hardy in USDA zones 3–8 and UK zones H5
Soil requirements:Prefers fertile, well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH
Feeding requirements:Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring and again before flowering
Propagation:Propagate through seeds; sow directly in the garden or start indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost
Pruning:Remove spent flowers to encourage prolonged blooming; cut back after flowering to prevent self-seeding if unwanted
Pests and diseases:Susceptible to rust, a fungal disease that causes orange spots on leaves; aphids and spider mites may also be an issue
Alcea rosea: pink Hollyhocks

Propagation

Hollyhocks are best propagated by seeds, which germinate readily and can be directly sown into the garden after the last frost. If you wish to start seeds indoors, plant them 6–8 weeks before the expected frost date in a seed-starting mix. Transplant seedlings into the garden once they are sturdy and have at least two sets of true leaves.

For an earlier display, consider overwintering plants by sowing seeds in late summer and transplanting the seedlings into their final position before the first frost. Hollyhocks often self-seed in the garden, so allowing some flowers to go to seed can ensure a continual supply of plants.

Hollyhocks - Alcea rosea

Pests and diseases

Hollyhocks are commonly affected by rust, a fungal disease that manifests as orange or brown spots on the undersides of leaves. To minimise rust, provide good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. If rust appears, remove and destroy affected leaves to reduce its spread.

Alcea rosea

Aphids can also attack the stems and leaves, sucking sap and weakening the plant. Spray them off with a strong stream of water or apply insecticidal soap. Other pests include spider mites in hot, dry conditions, which can cause stippling on leaves. Regular monitoring and prompt action help keep these pests in check.

Best cultivars

  1. ‘Nigra’: Features deep maroon, almost black flowers; grows up to 8 feet (2.4 m) tall.
  2. ‘Chater’s Double’: Produces fully double flowers in a wide range of colours; ideal for adding drama to garden borders.
  3. ‘Halo Red’: Single red flowers with a contrasting yellow centre; great for attracting pollinators.
  4. ‘Majorette’: A dwarf variety with semi-double flowers; perfect for smaller gardens or containers.
  5. ‘Indian Spring’: A mix of pastel colours; open-pollinated variety that self-seeds freely.
  6. ‘Creme de Cassis’: Unique bi-coloured flowers in purple and white; adds a touch of sophistication to any planting scheme.
  7. ‘Antwerp Mixed’: Traditional single flowers in a rainbow of colours; a classic choice for cottage gardens.
  8. ‘Peaches ‘n’ Dreams’: Soft peachy-pink blooms with a ruffled, double appearance; grows to 6 feet (1.8 m).
Alcea rosea var. nigra * Hollyhock
Alcea rosea var. nigra Hollyhock by jacilluch is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

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