Alcea rosea Nigra (Hollyhock)

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.

• 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.
• Performs best in full sun, in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils. Tolerates a wide range of soil conditions, but will not tolerate wet winter soils. Partial shade is appreciated in the hottest climates.
• Easy to grow, Hollyhock is a welcomed addition to beds and borders, cottage gardens, coastal gardens, and wall-side borders.
• The flowers are attractive to hummingbirds, which hover near the blossoms, and to butterflies. Rabbit resistant.
• Propagate by seed sown in gentle heat in mid-winter or in-situ in spring.
• Cut back after flowering.
• Alcea rosea species is probably native to Asia minor. It may become weedy and potentially invasive in some areas.
• Find where this species is invasive in the United States.
• Discover beautiful U.S. native plant alternatives.