Hollyhock 'Nigra'
Providing architectural height to borders, Alcea rosea ‘Nigra’ (Hollyhock) is a vigorous biennial or short-lived perennial boasting tall, sturdy spikes of funnel-shaped, deep black-chocolate, single flowers adorned with a bright buttery-yellow throat. Blooming from mid to late summer, the striking flowers are arranged all around the spike and bloom from the bottom up. An old garden favorite, Hollyhock is best when grown against a wall or fence or at the back of the border.
Size: Grows vigorously up to 5-8 ft. high (150-240 cm) and 18-24 in. wide (45-60 cm). Hollyhocks easily self-seed and can establish colonies in the garden.
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 attract 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 native to Europe and Asia. It may become weedy and potentially invasive in some areas.
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.
Hardiness |
3 - 9 |
---|---|
Heat Zones |
3 - 10 |
Climate Zones | 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 |
Plant Type | Perennials |
Plant Family | Malvaceae |
Genus | Alcea |
Common names | Hollyhock |
Exposure | Full Sun |
Season of Interest |
Summer (Mid, Late) |
Height |
5' - 8' (150cm - 240cm) |
Spread |
1' - 2' (30cm - 60cm) |
Spacing |
18" - 24" (50cm - 60cm) |
Maintenance | Low |
Water Needs | Average |
Soil Type | Chalk, Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Cut Flowers, Showy |
Tolerance | Rabbit |
Attracts | Butterflies, Hummingbirds, Bees |
Garden Uses | Beds And Borders, Wall-Side Borders |
Garden Styles | Coastal Garden, Informal and Cottage |
Hardiness |
3 - 9 |
---|---|
Heat Zones |
3 - 10 |
Climate Zones | 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 |
Plant Type | Perennials |
Plant Family | Malvaceae |
Genus | Alcea |
Common names | Hollyhock |
Exposure | Full Sun |
Season of Interest |
Summer (Mid, Late) |
Height |
5' - 8' (150cm - 240cm) |
Spread |
1' - 2' (30cm - 60cm) |
Spacing |
18" - 24" (50cm - 60cm) |
Maintenance | Low |
Water Needs | Average |
Soil Type | Chalk, Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Cut Flowers, Showy |
Tolerance | Rabbit |
Attracts | Butterflies, Hummingbirds, Bees |
Garden Uses | Beds And Borders, Wall-Side Borders |
Garden Styles | Coastal Garden, Informal and Cottage |
How many Alcea rosea ‘Nigra’ (Hollyhock) do I need for my garden?
Plant | Quantity | |
---|---|---|
Alcea rosea ‘Nigra’ (Hollyhock) | N/A | Buy Plants |
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Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.
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