Description
Alcea rosea | Common Hollyhock ‘Halo Cerise’
Common Hollyhock (Alcea rosea), also known as Garden Hollyhock has graced cottage gardens, outbuildings and farmsteads for more than a century. They were once called “outhouse flowers” because Hollyhocks were grown around outhouses as they they were tall enough to cover them. Today home flower gardeners enjoy growing hollyhocks in borders or against walls and fences.
Related to Hibiscus, Hollyhocks are drought tolerant, but perform best with ample moisture and rich soil; otherwise, practically care-free! They flourish in sunny locations that are protected from wind. Reaching heights of 5-8 feet, they tower over most other plants. It has large, bright-pink showy flowers with a glowing cerise center bloom from June to August, and are an irresistible attraction to hummingbirds, butterflies and bees.Ā Will self-seed for years to come. Plants usually do not require staking.
In herbal medicine, Hollyhock is believed to be anĀ emollientĀ andĀ laxative. It is used to controlĀ inflammation, to stop bed-wetting, and as a mouthwash in cases of bleeding gums.
Type: Perennial
Sun exposure: Full sun
Mature height: 5- 8 ft
Mature width: 12-18 inches
Hardiness zones: 3- 9
