Species

Alcea roseaHollyhock

18 other cultivars

perennial

Lilac Hollyhock

Alcea rosea 'Lilac'

The Story

Plant Bio

Tall, stately perennial known for its large, showy flowers.

This cultivar features uniquely colored lilac blooms, setting it apart from more common varieties.

Uses & Benefits:

Alcea rosea Lilac offers tall, vibrant spikes of fragrant blooms that add vertical interest and color to gardens.

Its sturdy stems can support pollinators, enhancing garden biodiversity.

Provides nectar for hummingbirds and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.

SpeciesAlcea roseaHollyhock

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

72 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Biennial or short-lived perennial

Native To

Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil for planting.
Tuck seeds 1/4 inch deep and space 18-24 inches apart in early spring.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage rooting.
Water consistently, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged during the first growing season.
Thin out seedlings to promote healthy growth and airflow.
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer for optimal blooms.

Pro Tip

Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds, especially during dry spells.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply once a week during dry periods 🌱
Prune after flowering to encourage bushier growth
Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in spring and summer
Support taller cultivars with stakes if needed
Deadhead spent blooms for prolonged flowering

Don't

Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
Don’t prune in late fall or winter
Refrain from heavy fertilization late in the season
Don’t plant in poorly drained soils
Avoid disturbing roots during the growing season

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Pest Check
Prune
Spring Cleanup
Stake

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Tall floral borderColorful cottage gardenVertical accent in flower beds

Companion Plants

Lavender Salvia Echinacea Coreopsis Gaillardia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Lilac Hollyhock questions

What zones can Lilac Hollyhock grow in?

Lilac 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 Lilac Hollyhock deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Lilac Hollyhock, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Lilac Hollyhock bloom?

Lilac Hollyhock typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Lilac Hollyhock need full sun?

Lilac Hollyhock does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Lilac Hollyhock drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Lilac Hollyhock handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.