Hollyhock
Also known as
Common hollyhock, Garden hollyhock, Rose mallow, Towering mallow
Keep this plant’s care guide close at hand.
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Alcea rosea, commonly known as hollyhock, is a tall, short-lived perennial or biennial in the mallow family (Malvaceae), celebrated for its stately spires bearing saucer-shaped flowers from early to midsummer. Native to southwestern and central Asia and long naturalized across Europe, it thrives in cottage-style plantings, along fences, and against warm walls. Plants typically reach 5–8 feet tall, with coarse, lobed leaves forming a basal rosette in the first year, followed by flowering stems in the second. Flowers range from single to double forms in shades of pink, red, white, yellow, purple, and near-black, attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Although robust, hollyhocks are prone to rust (Puccinia malvacearum), so good spacing and dry foliage help. They self-sow readily, allowing stands to persist despite individual plants being short-lived. Alcea rosea tolerates a range of soils provided drainage is good, performing best in fertile, moderately moist, neutral to slightly alkaline ground under full sun. Staking may be needed in windy sites.
Taxonomy
Properties & Requirements
How to care for Hollyhock
Water
Water deeply to moisten the top 8–12 inches of soil, typically providing about 1 inch per week, more in hot, dry spells. Allow the top inch of soil to dry between waterings in established beds; seedlings and containers need more frequent checks. Always water at the base to keep foliage dry and reduce rust. Mulch 2–3 inches to conserve moisture and buffer swings, but keep mulch slightly away from crowns.
Light
Provide full sun for best flowering—at least 6–8 hours of direct light daily. In very hot climates, light afternoon shade can reduce heat stress and rust pressure without notably reducing bloom. Too much shade leads to lanky growth, fewer spikes, and increased disease. Situate plants where morning sun dries dew quickly and air circulates freely, such as along south‑ or west‑facing exposures, while avoiding deep shade cast by trees or dense shrubs.
Nutrients
Work 1–2 inches of compost into the planting area each spring, then apply a balanced, slow‑release fertilizer (e.g., 10‑10‑10) at label rates as stalks elongate. In poor soils or containers, supplement with a monthly liquid feed at half strength during active growth. Avoid high‑nitrogen products, which encourage lush foliage at the expense of blooms and may worsen rust. A light midseason top-dressing of compost or a low‑N, higher‑K bloom formula helps sustain flowering.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA Zones 3–9, hollyhock tolerates winter cold and performs best with cool to warm summers. Ideal growing temperatures are roughly 60–85°F (16–29°C). Established plants endure light frosts; young rosettes overwinter under mulch in colder regions. In sustained heat above 90°F (32°C), provide afternoon shade and consistent moisture to prevent stress. Shelter tall stems from strong winds with staking or by planting near fences or walls that offer protection.
