HOLLYHOCK

Plant Name: Hollyhock

Scientific Name: Alcea rosea — Hollyhock, Garden Hollyhock

Type: Biennial or short-lived herbaceous perennial

Mature Height: 5–8 ft

Mature Spread: 1–2 ft

Growth Rate: Fast

Sun: Full sun

Water: Moderate; approximately 1–2 gal per plant per watering, 2–3 times/week while establishing

Foliage: Large, rounded, deeply lobed green leaves

Fall Color: Green before dying back

Flower Color: Red, pink, yellow, white, purple, and nearly black

Bloom Time: Summer

Fruit: Round seed capsules containing numerous seeds

Hardiness Zones: 3–8 (−40°F to 20°F)

Features: Tall flower spikes; long blooming season; attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds; excellent back-of-border plant

Additional Facts: Hollyhocks commonly reseed themselves and can return for multiple years. Tall stems may benefit from staking in windy locations.