Hollyhock

Family: Malvaceae, Genus: Mallows

Facts about Hollyhock:

  • Type: Herbaceous perennial grows up to 6 - 8 feet. Spread 1 to 2 feet

    • Considered a biennial or short-lived perennial.

    • Although short-lived, hollyhocks easily self-seed and can establish colonies in the garden that persist for years as if they were perennials.

    • Bloom Description:  Showy white, pink, & red

    • Bloom Time: June to August

    • Sun: Full sun Water: Medium

  • Looks Like:

    • Foliage features large, heart-shaped (3, 5 or 7 lobes), rough lower leaves which become progressively smaller toward the top of the spire. The flowers grow on rigid, towering spikes or spires which typically reach a height of 5-8' tall and usually do not require staking.

  • They are NOT invasive and can be safely used adjacent to natural areas. 

  • Location:

    • Hollyhocks do best in full sun and moist, rich, well drained soil. But will grow in partial shade and drier conditions but may not thrive as well or reach their full glory.

BioDiversity Benefits:

  • Attracts: Hummingbirds, Butterflies provides quick food and attract many native pollinators,  in need. Tolerates: Rabbit, Black Walnut

Historical Use:

  • Was used for its medicinal properties as it can cures fevers, treats sore throats and even heal wounds. Through more scientific studies it was also found that hollyhock can be used to treat gastrointestinal ailments and respiratory problems.

  • Traditionally, hollyhock was used in teas to treat any inflammation.

How to plant your Hollyhock Seeds Step-by-Step:

  1. If grown from seed, plant seeds in August or September for bloom the following year. Best when planted in fall as seed (October).

  2. Sow the seeds outside about a week before last frost.

    The mistake many of us make with planting seeds in fall is to plant in soil that is too dry.

  3. Sprinkle the seeds on top of soil and cover lightly with a fine layer of the soil. Hollyhock seeds only need to be planted right below the soil, no more than 1/4-inch deep. 

  4. Mark the area where you planted the seeds so you don’t “weed” them out in spring. 

    For germination seeds need full sun warmth.

  5. Help the seeds feel the sun’s warmth in the spring if you can.

    Although short-lived, hollyhocks easily self-seed and can establish colonies in the garden that persist for years as if they were perennials.

pollinators, herbaceousLeslie Adamsnon-native