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PlantSnap
Plant Care
Common hollyhock
(Alcea rosea)
Also Known As
Common hollyhock, Hollyhock, Althea, Malva, Stock rose
About This Plant
Alcea rosea is a species of flowering plant in the mallow family, Malvaceae. It is a biennial or short-lived perennial plant that is native to Asia and Europe. The plant produces tall spikes of large, showy flowers that come in shades of pink, red, white, and yellow. It is commonly known as Hollyhock.
Plant Care Instructions
Outdoor Size Range
48-72 inches (122-183 cm)
Light Requirements
Hollyhocks require full sun to grow and bloom. They need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Humidity Needs
Hollyhocks prefer moderate humidity levels, around 40-60%. They can tolerate dry air, but may benefit from occasional misting.
Fertilizing Schedule
Hollyhocks benefit from a balanced fertilizer applied once a month during the growing season. Use a fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Pruning Guidelines
Hollyhocks require little pruning. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers. Prune back the plant to the ground in the fall after the first frost.
Common Pests and Diseases
Hollyhocks are susceptible to rust, a fungal disease that causes orange or brown spots on the leaves. They may also attract aphids, spider mites, and Japanese beetles.
Indoor Size Range
24-36 inches (60-91 cm)
Watering Schedule
Hollyhocks require moderate watering. Water the plant deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between watering.
Temperature Range
Hollyhocks prefer moderate temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C). They can tolerate some heat and cold, but extreme temperatures can damage the plant.
Growing Season
Hollyhocks are typically grown as biennials, meaning they complete their life cycle over two growing seasons. Seeds are sown in late summer or early fall, and plants will produce foliage the first year and flowers the second year. They bloom from mid-summer to early fall.
Growing Difficulty Level
Hollyhocks are moderately easy to grow. They require some care and attention, but are generally hardy and adaptable.
USDA Hardiness Zones
Hollyhocks are hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Did You Know?
Hollyhocks were a popular garden plant in medieval times, and were often grown in monastery gardens for their medicinal properties. The flowers were used to treat coughs, sore throats, and other ailments.
