Botanical Interests, Inc.
Hollyhock Outhouse Organic
Once called "outhouse flowers", stunning hollyhocks were grown around outhouses because hollyhocks were tall enough to cover them, and also as a signal to guests where they were located. This hollyhock has a long bloom period, too! Hollyhock flowers are edible, but very bland; however, the large, colorful petals are lovely garnishing salads or desserts. (The flower's central disk, while edible, can be bitter.) Fairly drought tolerant but performs best with ample moisture and rich soil; otherwise, practically care free.
Botanical Name: Alcea rosea and A. ficifolia.
Family: Malvaceae
Native: Origin unknown
Hardiness: Biennial, hardy in USDA zones 3–9
Plant Dimensions: 6'–9' tall
Variety Information: 2"–4", single, pink, red, burgundy, or white flowers, some with contrasting centers
Exposure: Full sun
Bloom Period: Summer
Attributes: Attracts Pollinators, Fairly Drought Tolerant
When to Sow Outside: RECOMMENDED. 1 to 2 weeks after your average last frost date, or 2 months before your average first fall frost date.
When to Start Inside: 6 to 8 weeks before your average last frost date. Roots are sensitive to disturbance; sow in biodegradable pots that can be planted in the ground.
Days to Emerge: 10–14 days
Seed Depth: Press into surface
Seed Spacing: A group of 3 seeds every 24"–36"
Thinning: When 3" tall, thin to 1 every 24"–36"
Harvesting: For longest-lasting cut flowers, harvest when 1/3 of the flowers on the stem have opened. Harvest in the morning; cut stem at an angle and immediately place in a bucket of warm water. Before placing in a vase, dip the stem end in boiling water for a minute, or sear it over a flame for 20 seconds; this will stop the flow of the milky sap so it does not clog the stem.
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