Hollyhock - Alcea Nigra

A novelty selection that is a must have for collectors! Single, deep chocolate-maroon (nearly black!) flowers are produced on tall, strong stalks, opening from the bottom up over a long period in summer. The leaves are deeply lobed in classic alcea form.

Hollyhocks are best treated as a biennial or short-lived perennial.

Hollyhocks provide excellent architectural height in the garden and make good backdrops for lower growing perennials. Try growing them in the cottage garden style by planting them up against a wall of picket fence. Though their stalks are very strong, the may need to be staked if they are planted in a windy site. Hollyhocks prefer rich, moist, well-drained soil but can tolerate short periods of drought. They need full sun to really perform in the landscape.

  • Planting Location: Full sun or partial shade
  • Planting: February-May after Frost
  • Planting Depth: 1 inch (2,5 cm)
  • Planting Distance: 2 feet (60 cm)
  • Flowers In: July-September
  • Flowering Height: Approx. 5-6 feet (150-180 cm)

How to Grow

Easy to Grow:

1. Select an area with full sun or semi-shade
2. Dig a hole 1 inch (2,5 cm) deep
3. Place the perennial in the hole, with pointed side up
4. Space perennial 24 inches (60 cm) apart
5. Cover with soil and water thoroughly

Planting Tips:

Plant in groups of 2 or more, in well-drained soil. Perennial will benefit from a handful of compost added to the planting holes. Plants can be easily divided in the fall or early spring of next season. Until planting it's best to store product between 35 F and 50 F degrees.

Search code: TG958


Collections: Perennials