Overview
Alcea rosea is a plant with a columnar upright habit in the genus Alcea, part of the Malvaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Alcea rosea grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, coastal, flower borders and beds and wall side borders.
About
Alcea rosea, the common hollyhock, is an ornamental dicot flowering plant in the family Malvaceae. It was imported into Europe from southwestern China during, or possibly before, the 15th century.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Alcea rosea
About the genus
Alcea is a genus of over 80 species of flowering plants in the mallow family Malvaceae, commonly known as the hollyhocks. They are native to Asia and Europe. The single species of hollyhock from the Americas, the streambank wild hollyhock, belongs to a different genus.
Wikipedia contributors, "Alcea", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Alcea
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Alcea
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Alcea rosea size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Coastal, Flower borders and beds, Wall side borders
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Alcea rosea
- Propagation
- Seed, basal cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Aphids, mallow flea beetles
- Disease resistance
- Hollyhock rust
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Alcea rosea?
Alcea rosea prefers full sun. It suits exposed positions.
What soil does Alcea rosea need?
Alcea rosea grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Alcea rosea hardy in the UK?
Alcea rosea has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Alcea rosea?
Seed, basal cuttings.
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