Hollyhock
ExplorePlants
Hollyhock
Alcea rosea
Hollyhocks are tall and have large, colorful flowers that bloom in a variety of shades. They bring a vintage charm to gardens!
Habitat: Gardens and along fences
Appearance
The Hollyhock is a stately, towering plant known for its dramatic spikes of large, ruffled flowers. These cup-shaped blooms come in a dazzling array of colors including pink, red, white, yellow, and purple, often with contrasting centers. Its sturdy, hairy stems can reach impressive heights.
KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderMalvalesFamilyMalvaceaeGenusAlcea
Category
PlantsRarity
Common
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Snaps
2
Interesting facts
Did you know some Hollyhocks can grow taller than a basketball player?
In ancient times, people believed Hollyhock flowers could cure many ailments.
The name "Hollyhock" might come from "holy mallow," a plant for pilgrims.
Their beautiful petals can be used to make natural fabric dyes!
Special abilities
Ability
Nectar Beacon
Hollyhock can produce abundant sweet nectar in its open flowers, acting like a beacon to attract hungry bees and butterflies.
Ability
Seed Shower
Hollyhock has numerous disk-shaped seeds that readily fall to the ground, helping it spread and grow new plants nearby.
Ability
Sun Seeker Stems
Hollyhock can grow incredibly tall with sturdy stems, allowing it to reach for sunlight above shorter garden plants.
Measurements & details
- Height
- 150-270 cm
- Spread
- 30-60 cm
- Flower Size
- 5-15 cm
- Bloom Season
- Summer
- Edible
- Yes
- Toxicity
- None
- Lifecycle
- Biennial
- Pollination Method
- Insect
Ecological connections
pollinates
European honey bee
Apis mellifera
collects nectar and pollen
pollinates
Painted lady butterfly
Vanessa cardui
sips nectar from the flowers
parasitizes
Hollyhock rust fungus
Puccinia malvacearum
causes orange spots on leaves
pollinates
Common eastern bumblebee
Bombus impatiens
gathers nectar and pollen
Traits
Flowering
Flowering plants are any plants that produce flowers as part of their reproductive cycle.
Fragrant Flower
Fragrant flowers emit a pleasant aroma, often to attract pollinators or for defense.
Colorful
Colorful describes organisms or objects displaying a wide range of bright and distinct colors.
Urban Friendly
This habitat trait indicates species that can coexist with humans in urban and suburban environments, utilizing man-made structures and green spaces.
Also known as
AlceaGarden Hollyhock
Collections
Safety
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Explore with care and ask an adult if you’re unsure what to do.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall is Hollyhock?
150-270 cm
How wide does Hollyhock spread?
30-60 cm
How big are the flowers on Hollyhock?
5-15 cm
When does Hollyhock bloom?
Summer
Is Hollyhock edible?
Yes
Is Hollyhock toxic?
None
What is Hollyhock's lifecycle?
Biennial
How is Hollyhock pollinated?
Insect
Snap Map
Zoom in to split clusters and explore where this object has been snapped.
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