Common hollyhock - Alcea rosea (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Common hollyhock

Also known as: Garden hollyhock

Common hollyhock (Alcea rosea) is a stalk-flowering plant known for its height and attractive flowers. It regularly reaches head height or beyond - from 1.5 to 2.5 m tall. The presence of common hollyhock in a garden can also attract butterflies and hummingbirds.

Scientific classification

Species

Common hollyhock (Alcea rosea)

Mallows, rock-roses, and allies

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Perennial, Biennial, Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

1.5 m to 2.5 m

Plant Height

50 cm to 1 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

5 cm to 10 cm

Flower Size

Brown

Fruit Color

Pink, Red, White, Yellow, Purple, Orange, Cream, Violet

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Common hollyhock

Distribution of Common hollyhock

Distribution Map

Common hollyhock originates from Turkey, where it has been cultivated so long that its original wild habitat is unknown. This garden ornamental has had global distribution but is most likely to grow wild as an escapee from cultivation in temperate climates around the globe.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Disturbed sites, roadsides, vacant lots

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Common hollyhock is good for planting in rock gardens and flowerbeds. It is prized for its ornamental blooms and is a staple in flowerbeds and borders in cottage gardens. It is often considered a good filler for summer bulb beds, and grows well with pansies and campanulas.

Symbolism

Fruitfulness, Fecundity, Ambition, Devotion to Love, fertility

Name Story

Common hollyhock: It is often called common hollyhock where the word "hollyhock" originated from "holihoc" in medieval English, meaning holy mallow. Hollyhock is still used today to call any Alcea genus plants. As Alcea rosea is the most common plant in the genus, it is called common hollyhock.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Common hollyhock, including the following common varieties :

Common hollyhock 'Spring Celebrities Carmine Rose'Common hollyhock 'Spring Celebrities Purple'Common hollyhock 'Spring Celebrities White'Common hollyhock 'Spring Celebrities Pink'Common hollyhock 'Fiesta Time'Common hollyhock 'Radiant Rose'Common hollyhock 'Nigra'Common hollyhock 'Mars Magic'Common hollyhock 'Halo Cerise'Common hollyhock 'Halo Blush'Common hollyhock 'Spring Celebrities Lilac'Common hollyhock 'Blacknight'

Toxicity

Common hollyhock causes contact dermatitis with symptoms like rash, itchy skin, and inflammation, typically from contact with the sap. It's not life-threatening but can last up to four weeks. Severe reactions are possible, and children and gardeners are most at risk due to its popularity in gardens and attractive flowers. Common hollyhock can cause more severe allergic reactions in some individuals.

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Quickly Identify Common hollyhock

Towering stalks up to 8 feet (2.4 meters) tall

Large, showy flowers 3-5 inches (7.6-12.7 cm) in diameter

Heart-shaped base on broad leaves

Schizocarp fruits with segmented structure

Robust, unbranched stem with fine hairs

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Care Guide for Common hollyhock

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Common hollyhock thrives in temperate regions, requiring moderate moisture and consistent weekly watering to support growth and flowering. Mulching helps retain soil moisture, reducing watering frequency while aligning cultural practices with the plant's natural water needs.

Fertilize: For optimal growth of common hollyhock, use balanced fertilizers at the growing season's start and switch to high phosphorus during flowering every 2-3 weeks. Reduce application in winter, and water common hollyhock post-fertilization to enhance nutrient absorption and prevent harm. These practices promote health and vibrant flowers year-round.

Pruning: Common hollyhock features tall spikes and vibrant blooms. Prune in early to late spring by removing damaged stems and trimming spent flowers to promote growth. End-of-season cuts prevent disease. Regular pruning improves airflow, reduces fungal issues, and enhances vigor and flowering capacity.

Propagation: The best time to propagate common hollyhock is Spring, using seeds as the preferred method. Successful propagation is indicated by germination and seedling emergence. For best results, soak seeds in water for a few hours prior to sowing.

Repotting: Repot common hollyhock every 2-3 years in early spring using a container one size larger. Provide adequate watering and light feeding post-repotting to aid recovery. Avoid over-potting, as it can stress the plant and hinder growth.

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Images of Common hollyhock

Distribution of Common hollyhock

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Common hollyhock

Care Guide for Common hollyhock

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