The Story
Plant Bio
A classic cottage garden plant, Alcea rosea is an upright, typically biennial or short-lived perennial, featuring tall spikes of large, showy, funnel-shaped flowers.
Known for its towering height and susceptibility to rust disease. Flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
72 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Medium
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Biennial or short-lived perennial
Native To
Southwestern China
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Bloom period
Summer – Early fall
In flower about 3 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds 1/4 inch deep into moist soil in early spring.
- Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
- Thin seedlings to 12 inches apart once they are established.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
- Stake tall varieties to prevent wind damage.
- Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers.
Pro Tip
Plant in full sun with well-draining soil for best flowering results.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply once a week 🌱
- Deadhead to promote continuous blooming
- Mulch to retain soil moisture
Don't
- Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
- Avoid heavy shade which reduces flowering
- Don't disturb roots during peak flowering
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Stake |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Hollyhock questions
What zones can Hollyhock grow in?
Hollyhock is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Hollyhock deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Hollyhock, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Hollyhock bloom?
Hollyhock typically blooms in summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Hollyhock need full sun?
Hollyhock does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Alcea to compare
Old Farmyard Hollyhock
Alcea rosea 'Old Farmyard'
Double Hollyhock
Alcea rosea 'Double Hollyhock Mix'
Hollyhock Country Mix
Alcea rosealca 'Country Mix'
Double Scarlet Hollyhock
Alcea rosea 'Double Scarlet'
Apricot Hollyhock
Alcea rosea 'Halo Apricot'
Hollyhock Mix
Alcea x hybrida 'Mix'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Grow Hollyhock with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.