An epitome of cottage gardens, Hollyhocks (Alcea rosea) are towering flowers that bloom in a wide range of colors for an extended period in summer. You’ve most likely seen them next to a barn, in front of a beautiful log cabin, or gracing a white picket fence.
This ancient all-purpose plant has absolutely captivated the hearts of many. Most of the most common cultivars are biennial plants. The Alcea genus includes around 60 species[1] native to Central Asia, southern Europe, and the Middle East. The genus Alcea belongs to the Mallow family.
If there is one defining characteristic to describe the hollyhock, it is its height. At 3 to 8 feet tall, even the shortest end of the height spectrum is tall.
It is truly a sight to see when you have a huge plantation of these majestic beauties in full bloom. The cup-shaped flowers have few or no stems and bloom in large spikes.
Hollyhocks are available in various colors, including yellow, white, red, purple, pink, blue, and even black. The large spikes are covered with flowers from top to bottom. Hollyhock leaves are webbed, large, and thick.
Suggested Readings:
Holly
