HOLLYHOCK-PINK Alcea rosea Characteristics Type: Perennial Water: Medium Zone: 2 to 10 Maintenance: High Height: 6.00 to 8.00 feet Suggested Use: Annual, Naturalize Spread: 1.00 to 2.00 feet Flower: Showy Bloom Time: June to August Attracts: Hummingbirds, Butterflies Bloom Description: White, pink, & red Tolerate: Rabbit, Black Walnut Sun: Full sun Culture Grow in average, medium moisture, well-drained soil in full sun. Tolerates a wide range of soil conditions and some light shade, but will not tolerate wet winter soils. Considered a biennial or short-lived perennial. If grown from seed, plant seeds in August or September for bloom the following year. Although short- lived, hollyhocks easily self-seed and can establish colonies in the garden that persist for years as if they were perennials. Noteworthy Characteristics Alcea rosea, commonly called hollyhocks, are old garden favorites. The flowers grow on rigid, towering spikes or spires which typically reach a height of 5-8' tall and usually do not require staking. Foliage features large, heart-shaped (3, 5 or 7 lobes), rough lower leaves which become progressively smaller toward the top of the spire. Long bloom period of June to August. Sometimes listed in nursery catalogs under Althaea. This is a mix of plants which produce huge (4-5" diameter), outward-facing, single flowers in a wide variety of colors including reds, pinks, whites, and light yellows. Problems Foliage is susceptible to rust, leaf spot and anthracnose. Spider mites and Japanese beetle can also be problems. Foliage can become rather tattered and unkempt in appearance when attacked by the aforementioned insects and/or diseases, but the flowers generally are not affected. May need staking, particularly if not protected from wind. Uses Hollyhocks provide excellent architectural height, contrast and a certain amount of old world charm to cottage gardens and border backgrounds. Also effective when grown against walls or fences. Courtesy of Missouri Botanical Society Plant Finder .