Alcea rosea ‘Chater’s Double Rose’ (Hollyhock)

Alcea rosea ‘Chater’s Double Rose’ is a captivating cultivar of the traditional hollyhock, standing tall with statuesque spires adorned with ruffled, double rose-colored blooms. These full, pom-pom like flowers create a striking display throughout mid-summer.

Alcea rosea ‘Chater’s Double Rose’: An In-depth Look

Native: Originating from Asia and Europe, Alcea rosea has been cultivated for centuries, and over time, many cultivars like ‘Chater’s Double Rose’ have been developed.

Plant Type and Habit: This plant is a biennial or short-lived perennial. It has an upright, columnar growth habit, which makes it particularly suitable for back borders or as a focal point in the garden.

Size: Typically, ‘Chater’s Double Rose’ can reach heights of 6 to 8 feet (180-240 cm), with a spread of about 18 to 24 inches (45-60 cm). Hollyhocks easily self-seed and can establish colonies in the garden.

Flowers: It boasts luxurious, double rose-colored blooms arranged in tall spires. Each flower resembles a plush pom-pom, adding depth and texture to the garden. Their ruffled, full appearance contrasts beautifully with simpler, single-petaled varieties

Bloom Time: You can expect this hollyhock to showcase its flowers from mid to late summer.

Fruits: After the bloom, it produces round fruits or capsules, which contain numerous seeds, enabling gardeners to propagate the plant easily.

Foliage: Its large, lobed leaves are a deep green, creating a contrasting backdrop for the velvety blooms.

Uses: Given its stature, it’s excellent as a background plant in perennial borders. It also suits cottage gardens and can be used as a natural screen or backdrop against fences and walls.

Pollinators: Hollyhocks are attractive to various pollinators, especially bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, which are drawn to their large, nectar-rich flowers.

Toxicity: Hollyhocks are generally considered non-toxic to humans, but like many plants, they can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Deer and Rabbit: Hollyhocks are usually not the first choice for deer and rabbits; however, when food sources are scarce, they might nibble on them.

Invasiveness: Alcea rosea is listed in the Invasive Plant Atlas of the United States. Find native plant alternatives.

Hollyhock Growing Tips

Location: Hollyhocks prefer full sun but can tolerate light shade. They need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight for best flower production. Pick a site sheltered from the wind to prevent these tall plants from flopping.

Soil: Hollyhocks tolerate a wide range of soil conditions but will not tolerate wet winter soils. Plant in well-draining, fertile soils for optimal results.

Watering: Young plants thrive in moist environments. Mature hollyhocks typically require water during extended periods of heat and dryness.

Pruning: After flowering, cut back the stalks to encourage a second bloom. At the end of the season, remove old stalks to reduce disease risk.

Propagation: Hollyhocks can be propagated from seeds. Sow seeds outdoors anytime from spring (after all danger of frost has passed.) until 2 months before the first heavy fall frost. If you prefer to start them indoors, do so about 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date in your area.

Pest and diseases: Hollyhocks are susceptible to several pests and diseases, including anthracnose, leaf spot, rust, Japanese beetles, and spider mites.